Deer-Resistant Very Rare

Dwarf Yew Pine

Podocarpus macrophyllus (low growing)

$23.00 Sold out
1 Gallon USDA Zones 7–11 Full Sun and Part Shade Matures 1–3 Feet

Podocarpus macrophyllus (low-growing form) is a spreading, glossy evergreen that stays low and wide, a fine-textured green groundcover or foundation plant where an upright yew pine would overwhelm.

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This low-growing form of Podocarpus macrophyllus is a compact, spreading evergreen with flat, needle-like leaves that spiral tightly around the stems. Where the ordinary yew pine climbs into an upright shrub or small tree, this selection stays low and horizontal, building a dense, glossy green mat of steady year-round texture and structure.

The habit is the value. A low, wide, spreading frame makes the plant a natural for the front of a border, a foundation planting, a shaded garden edge, or a bold evergreen groundcover where height would only get in the way. The fine, dark foliage holds through southern heat and reads as refined and composed in both formal and naturalistic settings.

Native to Japan, this low-growing form was sourced by Woodlanders from a rare specimen in Alabama, and remains a dependable choice for gardeners seeking form and simplicity without height dominance.

Grow the plant in full sun to part shade and well-drained soil, giving a little afternoon shade in the hottest gardens. Water to establish, then enjoy a drought-tolerant, low-maintenance evergreen that takes light shearing, tolerates salt and sandy ground, and is generally passed over by deer.

Will this plant thrive in your zone?

Plant Profile
At a glance
Hardiness
USDA Zones 7–11
Sun
Full Sun, Part Shade
Soil
Well-drained
Mature size
Height 1–3 Feet · Spread 5–6 Feet
Growth rate
Slow
Seasonality
Evergreen
Design Notes

A low, spreading evergreen. Use the low-growing yew pine as a bold evergreen groundcover, a front-of-border filler, a foundation planting, or a cover for a shaded edge, where the dense, glossy mat gives year-round structure without height. The spreading habit knits ground together and takes shearing, so the plant suits formal and naturalistic schemes alike, and pairs well with broadleaf evergreens, ferns, and hostas in part shade. Salt and drought tolerant once settled, and generally passed over by deer.

Flower, Fruit & Foliage

Foliage. Narrow, strap-like, leathery leaves spiraling densely around the stems, deep green and glossy, giving a fine, refined texture.

Cones. As a conifer, reproduction is in cones rather than flowers; male cones shed pollen in spring, and female plants ripen small, berry-like seed structures that can draw birds.

Habit. Low, wide, and spreading, forming a dense evergreen mat rather than an upright shrub; slow-growing and evergreen.

Care

Read our full care guide

Light. Full sun to part shade; a little afternoon shade eases the hottest gardens.

Soil. Well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral; adaptable to sand, loam, or clay that drains, and salt tolerant.

Water. Water deeply to establish, then drought tolerant; avoid waterlogged ground.

Pruning. Shears well; trim lightly to shape the low, spreading form in late winter or early spring.

Hardiness. USDA zones 7 to 11.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants

From rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

Woodlanders Growing Process

Because most of our plants are grown from rooted cuttings — alongside seed, air layering, and grafting chosen for each variety — you receive a stronger, true-to-type plant that establishes quickly in your garden.

Sustainable Growing Practices

Raised on organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management — never harsh chemicals — your plant arrives healthy for your garden, your family, and the pollinators they feed.

Supporting Local Biodiversity

Every purchase gives back. We donate to the Aiken Arboretum and support local wildlife conservation, so growing your garden helps protect the wider ecosystem too.

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.
Grown in Aiken, South Carolina
At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders
Healthy plants, ready to thrive
Success, made simple
Healthy plants, ready to thrive

Your plant arrives carefully packed and ready to settle in. Unpack them promptly, give them a day or two to acclimate, then plant following the notes we include — that’s all it takes. Clear care guidance comes with every order, so success is the easy part.

Read the care guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.

What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.

What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.

Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.