shrub

Roman Candle Podocarpus

Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Miu'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

156 inches

Width

42 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Adaptable

Lifespan

Very long-lived shrub/tree

Native To

Japan, China

Toxicity

Slightly toxic if ingested, especially the seeds

The Story

Plant Bio

Podocarpus macrophyllus, commonly known as yew plum pine, is a dense, evergreen conifer with fine-textured, dark green, needle-like leaves. It is extremely tough, adaptable, and widely used for hedging and screening in warm climates. Roman Candle™ ('Miu') is a spectacular cultivar that features explosive flushes of creamy-white to pale yellow new growth. This bright new foliage creates a dramatic, candle-like contrast against the mature dark green leaves, providing interest throughout the growing season.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Roman Candle™ is an exceptional focal point, providing a stunning visual display with its bright, creamy new growth. Its narrow, columnar form adds strong verticality and architectural interest to any garden design, year-round.

This Podocarpus is incredibly versatile and tough, tolerating heat, drought, salt spray, and a range of soil types. Its dense, upright habit makes it a perfect choice for creating a tall, narrow privacy screen where space is limited.

While it does not produce significant flowers for pollinators, the dense evergreen structure provides excellent shelter, cover, and potential nesting sites for birds, protecting them from predators and inclement weather.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in sun or part shade with well-drained soil
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball
Place the plant in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level
Backfill with the original soil and tamp lightly
Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots
Mulch to conserve moisture, but keep it away from the trunk

Pro Tip

Lightly shear the plant after each flush of new growth fades to encourage more of the colorful new flushes throughout the season.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

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
Plant in a spot with good air circulation

Don't

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

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Striking vertical accent or specimen plantUnique and colorful privacy screen or hedgeElegant formal container plant for entryways

Companion Plants

Loropetalum chinense 'Crimson Fire' Agapanthus 'Storm Cloud' Juniperus 'Blue Star' Gardenia 'Radicans' Trachelospermum jasminoides

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Roman Candle Podocarpus questions

What zones can Roman Candle Podocarpus grow in?

Roman Candle Podocarpus is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Roman Candle Podocarpus deer resistant?

Yes — Roman Candle Podocarpus is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Roman Candle Podocarpus bloom?

Roman Candle Podocarpus typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Roman Candle Podocarpus need full sun?

Roman Candle Podocarpus does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Roman Candle Podocarpus drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Roman Candle Podocarpus handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.