Podocarpus macrophyllus ‘Okina’ is looking lovely this winter. This Japanese selection has resided at the base of a large pine tree at JLBG since 2001. We love the white speckled foilage, which really shines in the winter months. Podocarpus macrophyllus is one of a short list of conifers that thrives in the shade of a woodland garden. Our 20 year old plant is now 6′ tall. Hardiness is Zone 7b-10b.

What’s the difference between Okina and Roman Candle?
P. ‘Roman Candle’ is a much tighter grower with a more upright habit and much more vigor. The leaf pattern is similar.
I have a cv. from PDN many years ago with the same cv. name but was narrow upright and only variegated on the new growth ,is there an update on the name or am I mistaken (probable). It now measures 2′ X 13′ .
Hmmm…is your plant in sun or shade?
Any chance you have P. ‘Akame’ instead of ‘Okina’?
No chance. I have P. ‘Akame’ in my collection.
The plant in question grows in a mostly sun situation.
P. ‘Roman Candle’ is more variegated than just the new growth.