Podocarpus alpinus Red Gem

Common Name: Mountain Plum Pine 'Red Gem'

Description: The Mountain Plum Pine 'Red Gem' (Podocarpus alpinus 'Red Gem') is a compact, evergreen conifer native to the alpine regions of Australia and Tasmania. This dwarf shrub is prized for its dense, needle-like foliage that emerges with a striking red hue in spring, maturing to a deep blue-green as the season progresses. Its slow-growing, arching habit makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens, borders, or container planting. 'Red Gem' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soils. It is well-suited to Melbourne's climate, tolerating both frost and occasional dry periods once established. While it does not produce prominent flowers, the plant may develop inconspicuous flowers followed by red berries, adding subtle interest to the garden.

Form:

• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: Approximately 60 cm
• Width: Approximately 90 cm

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Does not flower under Melbourne's weather conditions

Flower Colour:

• Not applicable

Key Attributes:

• Suitable for Pots
• Australian native
• Bird Attracting
• Suitable for Hedging
• Drought Tolerant
• Frost Hardy

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and animals

Companion Plants:

• Grevillea species
• Correa species
• Westringia fruticosa
• Leptospermum species
• Dianella species