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Afrocarpus falcatus

African Fern Pine

Plant photo of: Afrocarpus falcatus
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Information by: Plant Nerd and SelecTree        Photographer:

 

Description

African Fern Pine (Afrocarpus falcatus), also known as Podocarpus gracilior, is commonly found in Southern California. This evergreen tree can reach 50’-70’ tall and 30’ wide and has a moderate to fast growth habit. It will require very little shaping when it is young, but once it is too tall to prune from the ground, it should be left to a licensed arborist to shape and manage the size. This tree likes regular irrigation, well-draining acidic soil, and nitrogen fertilizer. This species should be planted at least three feet away from any hardscape areas and structures, such as houses and buildings, and not near any powerlines. It should be irrigated for about 30 minutes, twice a week, when using most in-line drip irrigation systems.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Conifer

Height Range

40-60', 60-100'

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Blue Green, Grey Green, Silver

Bark Color

Grey

Fruit Color

Green, Purple

Fruit Season

Fall

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Medium

Growth Rate

Fast, Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Acid

Adverse Factors

Messy

Design Styles

Formal, Japanese, Mediterranean, Ranch, Seascape, Spanish

Accenting Features

Espalier, Specimen

Seasonal Interest

Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Location Uses

Background, Park, Walls / Fences

Special Uses

Hedge, Screen, Topiary, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.