How to Grow and Care for Plum pines

Totara (Podocarpus totara) is a plant species native and endemic to New Zealand. Totara grows in lowland, montane and lower subalpine forests. This species is the largest known tree in its genus. Wood from this species is used to make fenceposts and flooring. Totara often grows in fertile, lowland well-drained soils.

The buddhist pine (*Podocarpus macrophyllus*) is a medium-sized evergreen conifer that can be trained as a bonsai tree, which is a form of Japanese horticultural art. In Feng Shui mysticism, the buddhist pine is considered to be very valuable, a fact that has led to illegal collection. The tree contains a mild toxin, so care should be exercised.

When the yew plum pine leaves are damaged, they emit a pleasant aroma. While the seeds are toxic, the fruits can be eaten and are used in pies and desserts. This shrub can be grown as a houseplant, container plant, or topiary.

Real yellowwood is the national tree of South Africa, where it's protected by the law. This large evergreen tree is readily used in landscaping and ornamental gardening, mostly for its decorative foliage. It is known as a long-lived tree, but it grows relatively slowly. Its wood has many uses and it's a highly valued timber tree.

This conifer is unique to the Philippines and Taiwan, where it is now endangered due to plants being taken from the wild to satisfy horticultural demands. Arius is often confused with a relative, P. polystachyus, which is a popular bonsai specimen. The plant was first documented by Carl Borivoj Presl, an 18th-century Czech botanist, physician, and naturalist.