Podocarpus lawrencei

Physical Characteristics

Podocarpus lawrencei is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7. It is in leaf all year, and the seeds ripen in October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

New Zealand - South Island.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary; Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked. It is rather small but has a pleasant slightly sweet flavour with a mucilaginous texture[K]. The fruit is about 6 x 5 mm[200].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

Superficially similar to Taxus species, but this plant is definitely not poisonous[200].