Breede River Yellowwood

(Podocarpus elongatus)

Breede River Yellowwood (Podocarpus elongatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Podocarpus elongatus, commonly known as Breede River Yellowwood, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the Cape Province area of South Africa, where it is found in Afromontane forests. It typically grows to a height of 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) and a width of 4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters), but can reach up to 20 meters in its natural habitat. The tree has a dense, conical form when young, becoming more irregular with age. It produces inconspicuous yellowish flowers followed by fleshy, purple, berry-like fruits that are enjoyed by birds. The foliage is dark green, with needle-like leaves that are soft to the touch.

Breede River Yellowwood is valued for its attractive, fine-textured foliage and its adaptability to a range of garden settings. It can be used as a specimen plant, for screening, or as a hedge. This species is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium amounts of water and thriving in both full sun and part shade. It prefers well-drained soils and is more drought-tolerant than other Podocarpus species once established. It is also frost-resistant, making it suitable for cooler climates within its hardiness zones. While it is not commonly affected by pests or diseases, root rot can occur in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 8-12 feet
  • Width: 4-5 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Hedges, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

native to the Cape Province area of South Africa, where it is found in Afromontane forests

Other Names

Common Names: Cape Yellowwood, Breërivier Geelhout, Westelike Geelhout, Ногоплодник Продолговатый (Nogoplodnik Prodolgovatyj), 好望角罗汉松 (Hao Wang Jiao Luo Han Song)

Scientific Names: , Podocarpus elongatus, Taxus elongata, Nageia elongata, Podocarpus linearis, Podocarpus pruinosus, Podocarpus thunbergii var. angustifolia, Taxus capensis,

GBIF Accepted Name: Podocarpus elongatus (Aiton) L’Herit. ex Pers.