Podocarpus polystachyus or Sea Teak is another plant that is under some durress in its native habitat. It was sconsidered Vulnerable in 2013. Collection of this plant from the wild is illegal in the Philippines and Taiwan.
Plants are often confused with a sister relative called Podocarpus costalis.
Based on what I am learning this is another plant I would prefer to protect. It seems it san be grown from seeds, though I am not sure about how to do that. I have just one plant from a previous permitted collection and I am going to put more interest into this plant to ensure it stays alive and thrives.
Podocarpus polystachus specifics
- Core Identification & Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Podocarpus polystachyus
- Common Name: Sea teak or Sea Podocarp
- Family: Podocarpaceae
- Varietals:
- Habitat/Range: Malay Peninsula, Singapore, Philippines, New Guinea and other regional islands
- Morphology & Characteristics
- Growth Habit: Tree up to 20m tall
- Leaves: Short stalked lathery leaves. up to 12cm long
- Flowers: Cream to off-white
- Fruit/Seed: Edible for birds
- Stem/Bark: Greyish brown to dark brown
- Growth: Slow
- Bonsai Notes
- Sun Exposure: Full sun 4-6 hours or partial shade.
- Water Use: moderate water, salt spray.
- Soil Mix: Limestone (anapog), Akadama, Pumice, Lava Rock
- Fertilizing: balanced fertilizer every 2–4 weeks during the active growing season (spring through autumn).
- Styling and Maintenance
- Pruning: Regular pruning is essential
- Defoliation: Partial or full leaf pruning
- Wiring: Branches can be wired year-round
Gallery images
Firstly, we are uploading pictures of our plants to show the parts of a plant that may help in identification. Secondly, we only have so many plants and my photography skills are not actually skillful. Finally, if it would help to see another angle or view, view us a message and we will attempt to get the right picture perspective.
