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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Sickle-leaved yellowwood
(Afrocarpus falcatus)
Also Known As
Sickle-leaved yellowwood, Outeniqua yellowwood, Yellowwood, Podocarpus
About This Plant
Afrocarpus falcatus is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. It has a conical crown with horizontal to drooping branches. The bark is grey-brown and rough. The leaves are needle-like, about 2 cm long, and arranged spirally on the branches. The male and female cones are separate and appear on the same tree. The female cones are green when young and turn brown when mature. The seeds are about 1 cm long and have a fleshy red aril.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Height: 10-30 meters (33-98 feet), Spread: 3-6 meters (10-20 feet)
Light Requirements
Requires full sun to partial shade. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Humidity Needs
Prefers moderate humidity levels. Mist the leaves occasionally during dry periods.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize once a year in spring with a slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune to remove dead or damaged branches. Can be pruned to shape in early spring before new growth appears.
Common Pests and Diseases
Generally pest-free, but can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs.
Indoor Size Range
Not suitable for indoor cultivation
Watering Schedule
Prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions.
Temperature Range
Hardy in USDA zones 9-11. Can tolerate a minimum temperature of 20°F (-6°C).
Growing Season
Spring and summer
Growing Difficulty Level
Moderate
USDA Hardiness Zones
9-11
Did You Know?
The wood of the Outeniqua yellowwood is highly valued for its durability and has been used for furniture, flooring, and construction. It is also the national tree of South Africa.
