Podocarpus

Podocarpus () is a genus of conifers, the most numerous and widely distributed of the podocarp family, the Podocarpaceae. Podocarpus species are evergreen shrubs or trees, usually from 1 to 25 m (3 to 82 ft) tall, known to reach 40 m (130 ft) at times. The cones have two to five fused cone scales, which form a fleshy, berry-like, brightly coloured receptacle at maturity. The fleshy cones attract birds, which then eat the cones and disperse the seeds in their droppings. Plants of the World Online accepts 116 species. Other authorities place 97 to 107 species in the genus depending on the circumscription of the species. Species are cultivated as ornamental plants for parks and large gardens. The cultivar 'County Park Fire' has won the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.