I need serious help to identify this plant, it was one of the 3 stems that I picked from a bouquet at my father's funeral. As you can see in the picture, the initial stem dried out at the end within a couple of months, and each new stem shared the same pattern, that is they start strongly but after a couple of leafs the tip appears to be growing a small bud or something, and then the tip simply dries . Growth is very slow, on this particular plant I had maybe 3 new stems in almost 4 years. I tried boosting the plant with vitamins, exposed the plan to different sunlight, but this little one is still having a hard time. Knowing what kind of plant it is would definitely help me. Thanks!
From the images I can see on the net, I think you nailed it. Thanks! This is the first step to heal this plant.
Which brings me to another question, that is what in-house conditions would you recommend for the Podocarpus macrophyllus? I hate to loose a plant, especially this one. Would direct sunlight be preferable?
I cannot speak from experience however the following page contains information on its care as a houseplant: Podocarpus macrophyllus.
Ditto to Podocarpus macrophyllus (Kusamaki; the English name Junglekeeper used is incorrect, it is not a pine). For better growth, it needs well-drained soil kept just moist but not soggy, and high air humidity. The soil in your pot looks like it may be peat-based, which is too water-retentive, encouraging root rot. Keep it cool (5 to 10°C) in winter, and hot (25 to 30°C) in summer. It will take some frost, but not severe cold.
You're right, the soil is too dense and retains water for a long time. I will switch to a well-drained soil this week-end. I may move this plant to my bathroom as the daily shower and 2 kids generates enough humidity inside this room, otherwise the level is around 30% these days inside the house. Thanks for the tip!
