Plant Profile: Podocarpus macrophyllus var. maki

This plant is a compact evergreen conifer that can take the form of a shrub or a slender, conical tree, thriving particularly well in coastal North Carolina. It typically reaches heights of up to 6.5 feet, but in its tree form, it can grow as tall as 50 feet. In colder climates, it serves well as a container plant, easily brought indoors during winter. Its adaptability to pruning makes it a popular choice for topiary designs. With its ability to thrive in low light, it can flourish as a houseplant in brightly lit spaces, often found in commercial settings like offices and shopping malls, especially under skylights. In regions where it can withstand winter, it is commonly used as a large hedge or privacy screen. The foliage emits a pleasant fragrance when crushed, and it can also be utilized as a specimen or background plant.

This species prefers rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained, and fertile soils, thriving in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate some shade, it does not fare well in overly wet conditions. It prefers moderate humidity and has a slow growth rate. Additionally, it is tolerant of salt, drought, and exhibits some heat resistance. Although it does not produce flowers, it features yellowish, elongated pollen cones, light blue fleshy seeds, and enlarged red stalks. While the fleshy red arils are safe to eat, the round seeds, which resemble fruit, are toxic and may attract children. Fortunately, this plant is largely free from serious pest or disease issues and is resistant to deer.

Indoor specimens may occasionally develop scale, and chlorosis, or yellowing of leaves, can occur in alkaline soils.

The 'Maki' variety is a smaller, slower-growing version of this species.

**Quick Identification Tips:**
- The plant poses only low toxicity if ingested, with children potentially mistaking the fleshy seeds for fruit.

For further details on Podocarpus macrophyllus, additional resources are available.