Kusamaki
Podocarpus macrophyllusfam. Podocarpaceae
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Pl. 6C18 — Podocarpus macrophyllus
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IOverview
Overview
Kusamaki (Podocarpus macrophyllus) is a tree native to China South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Myanmar, and Taiwan. Known for its ornamental value and edibility, this plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure. It prefers soil types that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and has a hardiness range of 8-11. Kusamaki can grow up to 10 meters tall and is notable for its edible fruit. Its adaptability makes it a popular choice in landscaping while also providing a food source.
Quick answers
What is Kusamaki?
Kusamaki (Podocarpus macrophyllus) is a tree native to China South-Central, Southeast, Japan, Myanmar, and Taiwan. Known for its ornamental value and edibility, this plant thrives in moist conditions with light to partial sun exposure.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Kusamaki thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows up to 10 meters tall. Propagate through seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible. Soil pH should range between 5.5 and 7 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
Soil pH
5.5–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Kusamaki for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Kusamaki tree to observe its growth and beauty.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Kusamaki sapling, well-draining soil, and a container or garden spot.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is mild and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil has good drainage. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay soil with added organic matter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into your prepared garden bed or container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial sun to full sun, and continue regular watering as needed. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree in late winter to encourage a bushy growth habit and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using unsuitable soil types, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough space for growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The Kusamaki tree's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruits are consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip
Other uses:HedgerowLumberEspalier
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 5 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 5 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 5 introduced
Asia5 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanMyanmarTaiwan
introduced (1)South Korea
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)Puerto RicoUnited States
Broader regions
introduced:Alabama, Leeward Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Podocarpaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Podocarpaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 6c1817dc-a557-4f13-a871-102f2c529653
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