Podocarpus alpinus Red Gem

Podocarpus alpinus Red Gem, commonly known as Mountain Plum Pine, is a compact Australian native conifer valued for its striking seasonal colour and neat, spreading habit. It forms a dense, low-growing shrub or groundcover with very dark blue-green, short needle-like foliage. An unusual feature of this plant is its maroon-coloured new growth, which creates a beautiful contrast against the older foliage. During winter the foliage transforms to fiery shades of orange-red, adding vibrant seasonal interest to the garden. Because of its compact size and attractive colour changes, it makes an excellent choice for rockeries, borders, and containers. Red Gem responds well to trimming, allowing it to be easily shaped and maintained. This makes it particularly suitable for use as a low hedge or border planting, where it can create a tidy and visually striking edge in the landscape.

Soil: Well-drained soil.

Conditions: Full sun to part shade. Light frost tolerance.

Size: Height 0.30m x width 0.90m