Podocarpus neriifolius - Brown podocarp (Forest honeycomb)

Genus of trees or shrubs composed of about ninety species currently distributed in humid temperate or tropical regions. Podocarpus neriifolius is an evergreen dioecious tree up to 18-20 m tall with an open and spreading crown. The bark is initially smooth and greyish in colour, cracking and fraying in adult individuals. The leaves are leathery, thin, linear, pointed, up to 15 cm long and dark green in colour. In female specimens, at the end of autumn, the purple-bluish seeds ripen which are very particular; they have a characteristic edible fleshy peduncle.

Pedoclimatic needs
It should be planted in full sun but also tolerates partial shade. It adapts to all soils, but prefers loose, fresh and slightly acidic ones. Not very rustic species that does not resist cold and frost, tolerating temperatures up to -0°/-2°C for short periods. Once rooted, it also resists heat and drought as long as it is not too prolonged. Species that tolerates wind and saltiness and therefore can also be used in coastal gardens. Podocarpus neriifolius in addition to being grown as an isolated specimen is also widely used for the creation of tree-lined avenues and hedges. It is also widely used to create magnificent bonsai.

Name
Podocarpus neriifolium

Family
Podocarpaceae