Podocarpus macrophyllus

Podocarpus macrophyllus is often grown as an indoor plant, but this unusual evergreen conifer can also be planted in the garden. It can tolerate moderate frost. It impresses with its perfect columnar habit and its long, thin, flat, shiny green leaves, loosely attached to its almost horizontal branches. Its fleshy cones, resembling red or black berries, add colour to the overall appearance. In mild and humid climates, it can be used to create dense hedges that respond well to pruning. This montane plant, with a very exotic appearance, grows slowly, prefers cool environments, fertile and humus-rich soils, and is sensitive to intense sunlight.

Podocarpus macrophyllus is an evergreen conifer from the Podocarpaceae family, native to the southern mountains of China, Taiwan, and Japan. In its natural environment, it can reach over 20 metres (66 feet) in height and have a spread of 4 metres (13 feet), in rich and moist soil. In our climates, it will rarely exceed 6 metres (20 feet) in height. Over time, it forms an almost perfect column and its foliage vaguely resembles that of a yew. It consists of tough, linear leaves with rounded tips, measuring 5 to 15cm (2 to 6in) in length and 1cm (1in) in width. Their upper surface is shiny and smooth, fairly dark green, while their lower surface is more glaucous. It produces ovoid cones carried by short peduncles. At maturity, their scales swell and resemble fleshy berries, measuring 10 to 20mm (1in) in length and ranging in colour from purple to black. Birds are fond of them and greatly contribute to seed dispersal.

Podocarpus macrophyllus is often grown in pots on terraces or indoors, as it thrives in a familiar environment away from the scorching rays of the sun. It can also find its place in the garden in mild and humid climates, with an oceanic type of climate, either as a solitary plant or as a hedge. In harsh climates, it can be showcased as a rare and precious object in a large pot on the terrace or balcony, which will protect it from the coldest winters. It works wonders in a Japanese garden, perfectly suited to the art of bonsai and harmonizing well with large stones, geometric lines, and masonry works. It can be combined with complementary grasses or sacred bamboo. The true graphic qualities of conifers naturally come to the fore in the design of a contemporary garden, which prioritizes the aesthetics of forms, silhouettes, and textures over the dance of flowering plants. These reassuringly permanent plants provide lasting structure to flower beds, mark pathways, adorn terraces or balconies, and happily replace the strong presence of trimmed boxwood or holly. The key is to play with volumes and colours.