Afrocarpus gracilior, commonly known as African Fern Pine, is an evergreen tree native to the Afromontane regions of East Africa, where it thrives in montane forests and occasionally in high-altitude grasslands and rocky areas. It is a medium to large-sized tree, typically growing 20–40 meters tall, but it can reach heights of up to 50 meters. The trunk diameter usually ranges from 50 to 80 centimeters. The African Fern Pine has a slender, spire-like form, with foliage that resembles that of a fern, hence its common name. The leaves are small, narrow, and dark green, creating a soft, feathery texture. The mature seed cones are purple when ripe and are dispersed by birds and monkeys, which eat the fleshy coating. The pollen cones are yellow and appear either singly or in clusters of two or three on a short stem. Flowering occurs throughout the year, with the cones being less conspicuous than the foliage.

This tree is valued for its elegant, fern-like foliage and its adaptability to a range of urban environments, making it a popular choice for ornamental planting and as a shade tree in parks and gardens. It is also used as a windbreak and for screening purposes. In cultivation, the African Fern Pine prefers full sun to part shade and requires medium amounts of water, thriving in soils with medium drainage. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soils. It is not known for being invasive when grown outside its native range, but gardeners should monitor for any signs of aggressive growth.CC BY-SA 4.0