Buddhist Pine (Podocarpus macrophyllus)
Buddhist Pine is a refined, evergreen conifer with narrow, glossy green leaves and a naturally upright, architectural form. Native to East Asia and often used in temple gardens, it’s slow-growing and elegant, making it a strong candidate for bonsai or structured container planting.
 
As a Bonsai:
Podocarpus macrophyllus takes well to bonsai training with regular pruning and can develop a clean, upright structure with time. Its growth is slower than many tropicals, but it responds well to shaping and can eventually develop a thick, formal-looking trunk. Best suited for growers who enjoy long-term refinement and a clean, minimalist aesthetic.
 
📢 This is a subtropical species—it thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season and should be grown outdoors in warmer months. It should be brought indoors when night temperatures approach 40°F. For optimal health, it benefits from a short pseudo-dormancy period during winter, with at least a month of daytime temperatures around 55–65°F.
 
Plant Features:
Hardiness Zone: 8–11 (must be overwintered indoors in colder climates)
Growth Habit: Slow-growing, upright evergreen with dense branching
Mature Size: 15–20 ft in landscapes; easily kept much smaller in bonsai form
Foliage: Narrow, leathery dark green leaves; naturally neat and symmetrical
Trunk & Bark: Smooth bark that becomes textured over time
Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type: Well-draining; prefers slightly acidic soil
Water Needs: Moderate; enjoys consistent moisture but dislikes soggy roots
Pests/Disease: Generally hardy; may attract scale or mites if overly dry indoors
Special Features: Architectural form, slow growth, tolerant of pruning and shaping, long-lived