About
A slow-growing dwarf conifer to around 50cm high, with a dense, rounded habit and narrow, blue-green leaves that are flushed red at the tips.
About the genus
Podocarpus can be evergreen shrubs or trees, with spirally arranged, but usually 2-ranked, leaves which may be linear or narrowly lanceolate; plum-shaped fleshy fruits are produced only where male and female trees grow together
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeConifers, Shrubs, Alpine Rockery
HabitBushy, Spreading branched
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.5-1 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Rock garden
Care notes
CultivationTolerates a range of conditions, but prefers humus-rich, well drained soil. Will tolerate light, open shade but foliage colours are more pronounced if grown in full sun
PruningMinimal pruning required, though may be trimmed to shape or as low hedging if desired
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in late summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free