Real Yellowwood National Tree | Podocarpus Latifolius

Podocarpus latifolius, commonly known as the Real Yellowwood or Oregat-geelhout, is South Africa’s revered National Tree and one of the most magnificent evergreen forest trees in Southern Africa.

Renowned for its glossy, dark blue-green foliage and straight, grand trunk covered in fissured greyish-brown bark, this long-lived indigenous tree produces fleshy, berry-like red to purple cones that actively attract birds and native fruit-eating wildlife. Whether grown as an elegant container specimen on a shady patio or planted out as a regal garden shade tree, the Real Yellowwood adds timeless beauty, stature, and ecological value to any landscape.

Growing Conditions & Care

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light to partial shade when young, gradually adapting to full sun as it matures into a canopy tree.

Watering
Water regularly and keep the soil moderately moist during active growth. Once well-established, it tolerates moderate drought, though consistent moisture promotes lush leaf growth.

Soil
Thrives in rich, fertile, organic-rich soil that is well-drained. Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil conditions.

Temperature and Climate
Adaptable and hardy. Tolerates mild winter frost once established and thrives in coastal and high-rainfall regions across South Africa.

Growth Habit and Mature Size
Majestic, upright evergreen tree with a dense, symmetrical crown. Reaches a mature height of 8m to 15m in cultivated gardens (larger in indigenous forests) with a spread of 4m to 8m.

Maintenance
Low maintenance. Requires minimal pruning except to shape young branches or clear lower trunk space. Mulch around the root zone with organic leaf mould to retain soil moisture.

Best Uses

Majestic shade and feature tree for medium to large lawns

Elegant container specimen for shady patios and court entrances

Wildlife and bird-attracting indigenous forest landscapes

Privacy screening and evergreen background planting.