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1.Podocarpus — Overview
Podocarpus macrophyllus, commonly known as the Buddhist pine or yew pine, is a stately evergreen conifer indigenous to the subtropical and warm-temperate zones of East Asia, flourishing across Japan, Taiwan, and certain regions of mainland China. This robust species typically presents as a dense, elegant shrub or a small to medium-sized tree, generally reaching heights between 3 and 10 meters. However, in its undisturbed natural forest environment, it can occasionally tower over 20 meters. Its inherent resilience and adaptability to pruning make it a highly favored specimen for bonsai artistry and ornamental cultivation, especially for indoor settings. The foliage of Podocarpus macrophyllus is its most distinctive feature, characterized by spirally arranged, linear to narrowly lanceolate leaves.
These leaves are notably elongated, typically measuring 5 to 12 centimeters in length and approximately 0.5 to 1.5 centimeters in width. They possess a distinctly leathery texture and exhibit a lustrous, deep dark green color on their upper (adaxial) surface, often appearing slightly paler beneath, which contributes to its refined, polished aesthetic. Unlike many conifers with true needle-like foliage, its leaves are broad and flat, bearing a striking resemblance to those of a yew, thereby inspiring the common name 'yew pine.' Podocarpus macrophyllus is a dioecious species, meaning individual plants are either exclusively male or exclusively female, bearing distinct reproductive structures. Male cones are small, cylindrical, and catkin-like, typically clustered in the leaf axils, measuring about 2 to 5 centimeters long, and release abundant yellowish pollen during the spring. Female cones are initially less conspicuous, gradually developing into a fleshy, berry-like structure upon maturation.
Each mature female cone usually encloses one to two ovoid seeds, which are enveloped by a succulent, often striking purplish-red aril. This colorful, fleshy receptacle, technically known as an epimatium, is highly attractive to birds, serving as a crucial mechanism for efficient seed dispersal. The bark of the Buddhist pine typically displays a grayish-brown hue, progressively developing a finely fissured or scaly texture as the tree ages, adding to its mature character.
Trusted Scientific References
Authoritative external sources for Podocarpus L'Hér.:
1.1.Podocarpus — Key Features
- Evergreen Conifer — Maintains foliage year-round, providing continuous aesthetic appeal.
- Dioecious Species — Separate male and female plants for reproduction.
- Fleshy Aril — Produces distinctive, bird-attractive, purplish-red 'fruits' (epimatium).
- Broad, Flat Leaves — Unique among conifers, resembling yew foliage.
- Adaptable Ornamental — Popular for bonsai, hedges, and landscape planting.
- Rich Phytochemistry — Contains potent norditerpene bilactones and other beneficial compounds.
- Anti — inflammatory Action — Key benefit supported by modern research.
- Antioxidant Power — Contributes to cellular health and disease prevention.
- Traditional Medicinal Use — Long history in Asian ethnopharmacology.
- Potential Anti — cancer Activity — A significant area of ongoing scientific investigation.
1.2.Podocarpus — Quick Summary
- Podocarpus macrophyllus is an East Asian evergreen conifer known as Buddhist pine.
- Rich in norditerpene bilactones and flavonoids with diverse pharmacological activities.
- Traditional uses include treating asthma, fever, venereal diseases, and eye conditions.
- Modern research supports its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
- The seeds are toxic, though the fleshy aril is reported as edible in some regions.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, and for individuals on certain medications.
2.Podocarpus — Scientific Identity
3.Podocarpus — Categories & Tags
4.Podocarpus — Appearance & Identification
5.Podocarpus — Water Requirements
- Site Selection — Buddhist pine thrives in partial shade to full sun, preferring well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil.
- Soil Preparation — Ensure soil is rich in organic matter, with good aeration and drainage; amend heavy clay soils with sand or compost.
- Watering — Requires consistent moisture, especially when young. Established plants tolerate some drought but prefer regular watering.
- Temperature and Humidity — Best in warm-temperate to subtropical climates; can tolerate light frost but needs protection in colder zones.
- Pruning — Responds well to pruning, making it ideal for shaping as a hedge, screen, or bonsai; prune in late winter or early spring.
- Fertilization — Feed with a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer in spring and late summer to support lush growth.
- Propagation — Can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or by seed, though seed germination can be slow and erratic.
- Pest and Disease Management — Generally resistant, but monitor for scale insects, mealybugs, and root rot in overly wet conditions.
Reviewed by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Multi-disciplinary editorial group · Botany · Ethnobotany · Herbal-medicine literature
Who reviewed this: This page was checked by the Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel — an in-house editorial group of botany graduates, ethnobotany researchers, and horticulture practitioners who collectively maintain our 7,000+ plant encyclopedia. Meet the team.
Our 4-step verification process
1. Taxonomic verification
Scientific names and synonyms cross-checked against Kew POWO, World Flora Online, and The Plant List.
2. Phytochemical & medicinal cross-reference
Active compounds, traditional uses, and reported activities are cross-referenced with PubMed, USDA Dr. Duke's database, and peer-reviewed ethnobotanical literature.
3. Conservation & distribution check
Distribution, ecology, and conservation status confirmed against GBIF occurrence records and the IUCN Red List.
4. Editorial & safety review
Every entry passes an editorial pass for clarity, originality, and safety notices (toxicity, contraindications, dosage caveats) before publication.
Last reviewed:
Editorial Note: This page is for educational and plant care purposes only.
Written by: Flora Medical Global Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Flora Medical Global Botanical Review Panel
Last Updated: June 28, 2026
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