The Yew Podocarpus is an incredibly low-maintenance plant with green foliage that resembles pine needles but is soft to the touch. Known for its ease of pruning, you can grow it as large as a shrub or a small tree!

However, despite its name, the Yew Podocarpus is not a true yew. It is a member of the Podocarpus genus, but the Yew Podocarpus has often been mistaken for the yew genus Taxus because of its similar needle-like leaves and berries.

Its vibrant green foliage makes the Yew Podocarpus a statement in any yard. The blue female cones of the shrubs eventually turn into blue berries that birds and wildlife love in the summertime. (But be warned, these are not safe to eat.) Perhaps its best feature, though, is how naturally it takes to pruning.

The Yew Podocarpus can be pruned into just about any shape, even as small as a bonsai or large as a narrow tree or wide shrub. It’s best known as an adaptable and low-maintenance plant making it great for an experience level. You can even grow the plant as a privacy hedge or border between properties.

Thanks to a small root system, they can grow in the narrowest of spaces, and in containers. As a tough, adaptable plant, capable of surviving in a variety of sites, the Yew Podocarpus really is great in any condition. If you’re looking for an east-to-grow, versatile plant that will thrive in your garden, look no further than the Yew Podocarpus. Order yours today!

Is the Yew Podocarpus easy to prune?

Yes! Celebrated for its adaptability it can be pruned into just about any shape.

Is the Yew Podocarpus a yew plant?

No. The Yew Podocarpus is not a member of the yew genus Taxus (despite its name).

Planting

Choose an area with at least 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. Then, dig a hole that’s at least two to three times wider than your Yew’s root ball. Once you’ve placed your Podocarpus, in the hole, backfill the soil, tamp down lightly to avoid air pockets, and water to help establish its roots.

Watering

Water once or twice weekly for the first few growing seasons to establish the Yew’s root system. If you’re not sure when to water, press 2 or 3 inches into the surrounding soil. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water it.

Fertilizing

Since the Yew Podocarpus is slow growing it will benefit from fertilizer. Feed your tree with a well-balanced formula in early spring, before new growth emerges.

Maintenance

Prune your Yew Podocarpus Tree annually for your desired shape or landscape needs.