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1/3Privacy Hedges & Screening
Podocarpus Gracilior (Fern Pine)
A softer, more naturalistic alternative to Ficus Nitida for privacy screening in Southern California. Podocarpus Gracilior holds dense evergreen foliage year round and takes well to shearing, without the aggressive root behavior some Ficus varieties are known for.
SeasonalityEvergreen
Sun ExposureFull sun to partial shade
Growing ZonesUSDA zones 9, 10, and 11
Choose your size 3 sizes
Pricing is confirmed at quote based on size, quantity, and delivery distance.
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Podocarpus Gracilior, the Softer Alternative to FicusBrand video coming soon, filmed at the nursery in Pacoima.
Why Podocarpus Gracilior?
Podocarpus Gracilior, often called Fern Pine, is a favorite alternative to Ficus for homeowners who want the same year-round privacy with a softer look. Its fine, feathery foliage reads less formal than Ficus, and its root system is generally less aggressive, which makes it a common pick near pools, patios, and foundations where root safety matters.
Planting & Spacing Guide
For a solid privacy wall, we typically plant Podocarpus 3 feet apart, center to center, the same spacing we use for Ficus. Growth is a little slower than Ficus, expect roughly 1 to 2 feet of new growth per year once established, so budget a bit more patience if you're starting from a smaller size.
A Safer Root System Near Hardscape
Podocarpus is generally a safer choice than Ficus for planting near pools, patios, and foundations, since its root system is less aggressive. That said, any mature tree's roots can eventually reach nearby structures over many years, so for very tight spaces we're still happy to advise on placement before you plant.
Care at a Glance
- Seasonality
- Evergreen
- Mature Height
- Commonly maintained at 10 to 20+ feet depending on use
- Mature Width
- 2 to 3 feet as a sheared hedge, wider if left natural
- Sun Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- Watering
- Deep watering 3x/week for the first 6 to 8 weeks after planting, then 2x/week in warm season and 1x/week in winter
- Growing Zones
- USDA zones 9, 10, and 11
Frequently Bought Together
Soil amendments, fertilizer, and support stakes for larger box sizes.
Ask About Add-onsContractor or Landscaper?
We are a working grower, not a re-seller. Contractors get direct-from-grower pricing, bulk quantities, and coordinated delivery to the job site.
See Wholesale PricingFrequently Asked Questions
How fast does Podocarpus Gracilior grow?
Once established, expect 1 to 2 feet of growth per year, a bit slower than Ficus. Most buyers choose a larger starting size for that reason if they want privacy sooner.
How far apart should I plant Podocarpus for a solid hedge?
We typically recommend 3 feet apart, center to center, for a solid privacy wall, the same spacing we use for Ficus.
Is Podocarpus safer than Ficus to plant near my pool or foundation?
Generally yes. Podocarpus has a less aggressive root system than Ficus, which is why many homeowners choose it for tight spaces. We're still happy to advise on exact placement for your site.
How often should I water a new Podocarpus hedge?
Water deeply 3 times a week for the first 6 to 8 weeks after planting. After that, shift to 2 times a week in warm season and once a week in winter.
Do you deliver and plant, or just deliver?
Both. Choose delivery only, or add professional planting so our crew installs the hedge for you.
What if I already bought my hedge from Unidad? Can I still get care advice?
Yes. Call us anytime. We are happy to advise past customers on watering, shearing, and feeding schedules.