About Podocarpus nakaii Hayata
Podocarpus nakaii is a conifer species belonging to the family Podocarpaceae. This species is endemic to Taiwan, where it grows scattered across broad-leaf forests in the central region of the island. Ponesterone, a compound structurally similar to the insect moulting hormone ecdysone, can be obtained from this plant. This was the first ecdysone to be isolated by Nkanishi et al. Survey data from sampled areas shows that the population density of Podocarpus nakaii is around 100 individuals per hectare. The largest recorded individual has a diameter at breast height of approximately 30 cm, but nearly 90% of all trees have a diameter at breast height smaller than 10 cm. All trees of this species are shorter than 10 meters in height. These growth patterns indicate that Podocarpus nakaii is a shade-tolerant species that occupies the lower layer of forest habitats. Its young seedlings are sheltered by larger trees, and are able to grow successfully in shaded conditions beneath mature trees. Due to its attractive overall shape and distinctive bright red receptacles, Podocarpus nakaii is an excellent ornamental plant for garden use.
