Burmese Yew Pine
podocarpus neriifolius
Also known as: ["Burmese Podocarpus","Yew Plum Pine"]
Overview
A slow-growing evergreen conifer with dense, dark green, yew-like foliage and small, berry-like cones.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","shade tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Genus: | Podocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Podocarpus neriifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or sheltered outdoor location with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added organic matter; can use a mix of peat, perlite, and loam.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major shaping is best done in spring before new growth starts.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight or dappled shade; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near south-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 overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers stable temperatures without extreme fluctuations.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing which can burn roots.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; air layering is also effective for larger specimens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy stem.
- Cut just below a node.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in 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); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture; check for root development after 4 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant to maintain desired form; remove dead or diseased growth; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune selectively; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring is the best time to repot, just 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; may need repotting if growth slows or soil dries out quickly.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage holes; trim roots if necessary; use fresh potting mix; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; 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 compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning leaves; leaf drop; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or drop; can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a space heater if necessary; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced growth; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; use diluted fertilizer; water before applying; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild to moderate toxicity if they ingest the seeds or berries of Podocarpus neriifolius. The plant's toxic compounds can cause gastrointestinal disturbances and other adverse effects, though severe reactions are uncommon.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of the seeds and berries of Podocarpus neriifolius can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and other systemic effects. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort and potential health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPodocarpus neriifolius contains toxic compounds, primarily in its seeds and berries, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's toxicity is not severe but can lead to discomfort and adverse reactions in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Podocarpus neriifolius toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How fast does Podocarpus neriifolius grow?
A: It is a slow-growing plant, typically adding only a few inches per year.
Q: Can Podocarpus neriifolius be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it prefers outdoor conditions with partial shade and ample space to grow.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Podocarpaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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