Kusamaki
podocarpus macrophyllus
Also known as: ["Kusamaki","Inumaki","Japanese Yew","Korean Yew"]
Overview
An evergreen conifer native to East Asia, valued for its elegant, dense foliage and adaptability to pruning.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus: | Podocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Podocarpus macrophyllus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot, or as a specimen tree in a garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix; a blend of potting soil, perlite, and peat moss works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major shaping or rejuvenation pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shaping or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but prefers shade from intense afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement seasonally to avoid extreme light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures and dislikes drafts.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to summer)
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use a cactus mix with added perlite.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, plastic wrap or dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; maintain high humidity with a plastic dome; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged branches first; shape the plant gradually; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or browning leaf tips.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or discoloration; prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) can damage roots.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop due to excessive transpiration; may cease growth in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicPodocarpus macrophyllus is toxic to cats, with the seeds and berries containing taxine alkaloids that can cause significant health issues. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe seeds and berries of Podocarpus macrophyllus are toxic to dogs due to the presence of taxine alkaloids. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potentially cardiac issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPodocarpus macrophyllus contains taxine alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate toxicity when ingested. The physiological impact includes gastrointestinal distress and potential neurological effects in rare cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Podocarpus macrophyllus toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Can Podocarpus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can thrive indoors with bright, indirect light and moderate humidity.
Q: How often should I water Podocarpus?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, avoiding overwatering to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
