49 saves
Podocarpus
We track 8 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.
The 8 most-saved Podocarpus varieties
Species of Podocarpus
Each one is a parent of the varieties above.
Track your Podocarpus in Sow
Save the Podocarpus you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.
How to grow Podocarpus
Whats common across all Podocarpus varieties in our catalog — drawn from the care records of the 8 most-grown of them.
The Podocarpus year
- PlantMarch, April, September and October100% of varieties
Plant in spring or fall in well-drained soil.
- PruneMay and June100% of varieties
Prune or shear as needed during the growing season to maintain shape.
- FertilizeMarch and April100% of varieties
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
Do
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
- Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
- Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system
- Prune to shape and encourage dense growth
- Provide good drainage; it dislikes constantly wet feet
Avoid
- Do not plant in a waterlogged or poorly drained location
- Avoid letting the plant dry out completely when young
- Don't plant too deep, which can lead to root issues
- Avoid heavy fertilization, which is generally unnecessary
What goes wrong with Podocarpus
| Problem | What you'll see | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Scale insects | Sticky residue and yellowing leaves | Apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap |
| Scale | Small bumps on stems, sticky honeydew, and sooty mold. | Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season or when crawlers are active. Systemic insecticides can be effective for heavy infestations. |
| Scale Insects | Small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves, often accompanied by sticky honeydew and sooty mold. | Apply horticultural oil during the dormant season. Scrub off light infestations. Use a systemic insecticide for heavy infestations. |
| Aphids | Clusters of small insects on new growth, sticky honeydew, and sooty mold. | Spray with a strong jet of water. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Systemic insecticides can be used for severe infestations. |
| Root rot | Wilting and browning foliage | Improve drainage and reduce watering |
| Root Rot | Yellowing foliage, wilting, and plant decline, especially in heavy, wet soils. | Prevention is the only cure. Ensure excellent drainage. Plant in raised beds or on slopes if soil is heavy. |
| Sooty mould | Black, powdery coating on the leaf surfaces that blocks sunlight. | Control the sap-sucking scale insects responsible for the honeydew secretions using eco-oils. |
Making more Podocarpus
Cuttings
- Select healthy semi-hardwood cuttings.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist, well-draining soil.
- Keep soil consistently moist for 6 weeks.
Semi-hardwood cuttings
- Take 4-6 inch cuttings in summer.
- Remove lower leaves and dip in rooting hormone.
- Stick in a well-drained potting mix.
- Keep warm and humid; rooting takes 2-3 months.
Podocarpus questions
How many types of Podocarpus are there?
The Sow catalog tracks 8 distinct Podocarpus varieties. The most popular — ranked by 49 real gardeners — are shown first above.
What zones does Podocarpus grow in?
Across its varieties, Podocarpus covers USDA Zones 7–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.
When does Podocarpus bloom?
Most Podocarpus varieties bloom in spring, late spring. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.
Which Podocarpus should I choose?
Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.