Podocarpus nubigenus aka Cloud Podocarp

Podocarpus nubigenus is an evergreen conifer in the Podocarpaceae family. Its common names include Chilean podocarp and cloud podocarp. It comes from southern Chile and nearby southwestern Argentina. There, it grows in cool, wet forests. Some sites receive up to 5,000 millimetres of rain each year. It shares these forests with Fitzroya and Nothofagus trees.

In gardens, it forms a bushy shrub or small tree. Growth is slow, and maturity can take more than 50 years. RHS lists heights above 39 feet [12 metres]. Oregon State gives a taller size of 65 feet [20 metres]. The garden spread reaches about 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Dark brown bark has a purple cast and sheds thin flakes. Narrow, stiff leaves grow in spirals and end in sharp tips. Sources give leaf lengths of about 0.8–1.6 inches [2–4 centimetres]. Their green upper sides contrast with two pale bands beneath.

Male and female cones grow on separate plants. The small male cones sometimes form groups along the shoots. Female cones have a fleshy red base beneath one or two seeds. The oval seeds range from green to blue. These cones give the plant a berry-like look when ripe. The supplied sources do not give a flowering or cone season.

Choose a sheltered site with sun or some light shade. Rich soil with humus, steady moisture, and good drainage suits it best. It tolerates clay, loam, sand, and chalk. RHS also lists tolerance of acid, neutral, and alkaline soils. Oregon State favours acid to neutral ground. RHS rates it H5 for UK conditions. Published USDA guidance differs: PFAF gives zones 6–9; Oregon State lists hardiness to zone 7. Its evergreen form suits a woodland garden. RHS reports few pest or disease problems and no need for pruning. Seeds and semi-hardwood cuttings offer ways to raise new plants.

The reddish wood has uses in building and cabinet work. It lasts well in water, though it can be brittle. PFAF lists no known medicinal use. It describes the plant as nonpoisonous, despite its resemblance to yews. Its fruit entry needs more caution. PFAF suggests eating fruit raw or cooked, but admits direct reports are lacking. That uncertainty means its food use remains poorly supported.