Mountain Plum-pine
Podocarpus lawrencei 'Purple King'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
36 inches
Width
96 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Australia
Toxicity
All parts, especially seeds, are toxic if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Podocarpus lawrencei, commonly known as Mountain Plum-pine, is a slow-growing, evergreen conifer native to alpine areas. It typically has a low, spreading or prostrate habit with dense, leathery, dark green needle-like leaves. The foliage often takes on attractive bronze or purple tones in winter, especially in colder climates. It produces small, fleshy, berry-like cones that are attractive to birds.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck well-draining soil around roots for stability.
- Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
- Plant in partial shade for best foliage color.
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly after flowering to shape.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 💧
- Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches ✂️
- Mulch annually to conserve moisture 🌱
- Fertilize lightly in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun if foliage burns occur
- Avoid heavy pruning in late fall
- Don’t plant in compacted or poorly-drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mountain Plum-pine questions
What zones can Mountain Plum-pine grow in?
Mountain Plum-pine is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mountain Plum-pine deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Mountain Plum-pine, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Mountain Plum-pine bloom?
Mountain Plum-pine typically blooms in late spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mountain Plum-pine need full sun?
Mountain Plum-pine does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Podocarpus to compare
Henkel's Yellowwood
Podocarpus henkelii
Roman Candle Podocarpus
Podocarpus macrophyllus 'Miu'
Outeniqua Yellowwood
Podocarpus falcatus
Snow Podocarp
Podocarpus nivalis 'Female Form'
Weeping Podocarpus
Podocarpus gracilior
Yew Plum Pine
Podocarpus macrophyllus
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Mountain Plum-pine with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
