Podocarpus elatusBrown Pine

The Podocarpus elatus, or Brown Pine, is a tall evergreen tree native to eastern Australia, prized for its dense foliage, attractive form, and versatility in landscapes. Growing up to 20–40 meters in its natural habitat, it features glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves and a straight trunk with dark, textured bark. Its ornamental appeal is enhanced by small, fleshy blue-purple fruits that attract birds and wildlife.

Hardy and adaptable, the Brown Pine is ideal for feature planting, screening, windbreaks, or as a shade tree in large gardens, parks, and urban streetscapes.

Specifications:

• Height: 10–20 meters in cultivation (up to 40 meters in natural habitats)
• Width: 4–8 meters
• Native to: Eastern Australia
• Foliage: Glossy, dark green, lance-shaped leaves; evergreen
• Growth rate: Moderate

Conditions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
• Light: Full sun to partial shade
• Water: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Climate: Thrives in temperate, subtropical, and tropical regions

Additional Features:

• Fruit: Small blue-purple fleshy fruits that attract birds; non-toxic to humans
• Uses: Ideal for shade trees, screening, windbreaks, feature planting, or timber production
• Spacing: Plant 4–6 meters apart for individual impact or 2–3 meters for dense screening
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning; trim lightly to shape if needed
• Pest Resistance: Generally pest-free with proper care
• Longevity: Long-lived tree with high ornamental and functional value
• Environmental Benefits: Provides habitat for wildlife and supports biodiversity

The Brown Pine is a versatile and attractive tree, perfect for adding structure, shade, and ecological value to gardens and larger landscapes.