Broad-Leaved Yellowwood
(Podocarpus latifolius)
Broad-Leaved Yellowwood (Podocarpus latifolius)
/
/
Matthew Fainman
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Matthew Fainman
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Matthew Fainman | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Matthew Fainman | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2020-12-21T14:58:34-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Podocarpus latifolius, commonly known as Broad-Leaved Yellowwood, is an evergreen tree native to the Afromontane forests of South Africa. This species is part of the ancient Podocarpaceae family and is known for its longevity, with some specimens living for over 500 years. It typically grows to a height of up to 30 meters with a rounded crown and a straight, cylindrical trunk. The "latifolius" in its name refers to the broad, leathery leaves that are dark green and glossy, contributing to the tree’s dense, evergreen appearance. New growth emerges with a bright coloration, providing a striking contrast. The tree is dioecious, with separate male and female plants. The female trees produce attractive, berry-like cones with a single seed atop a pink-purple, fleshy aril that is both edible and sweet, while male trees bear pollen cones. Flowering occurs in spring, and although the flowers are not particularly showy, the resulting berries are appealing to birds, which play a crucial role in seed dispersal.
The Broad-Leaved Yellowwood is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its striking foliage and attractive berries. It is used in large gardens, parks, and as a street tree in urban landscapes. The wood is highly prized for furniture and paneling due to its exceptional quality. This tree prefers full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. It is relatively slow-growing but is known for its ease of maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that the tree can take many years to reach maturity and produce its characteristic berries.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Broad-Leaved Yellowwood is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its striking foliage and attractive berries. It is used in large gardens, parks, and as a street tree in urban landscapes. The wood is highly prized for furniture and paneling due to its exceptional quality. This tree prefers full sun to part shade and requires well-drained soil with moderate moisture. It is relatively slow-growing but is known for its ease of maintenance once established. Gardeners should be aware that the tree can take many years to reach maturity and produce its characteristic berries.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 40-75 feet
- Width: 25-35 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: Fast, Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Low Maintenance, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Afromontane forests of South Africa
Other Names
Common Names: East African Yellowwood , South African Podocarpus , True Yellowwood , Podo , Yellowwood , Upright Yellowwood , Opregte Geelhout
Scientific Names: Podocarpus latifolius , Podocarpus thunbergii , Podocarpus latifolius var. confertus , Podocarpus latifolius var. latior , Nageia latifolia , Nageia thunbergii , Podocarpus latifolius subsp. latior , Podocarpus latior , Podocarpus nobilis , Podocarpus pinnata , Taxus latifolia
GBIF Accepted Name: Podocarpus latifolius (Thunb.) R.Br. ex Mirb.