This plant, which is also called the Yew Pine, Southern Yew, or Podocarpus, can be poisonous when ingested. The fruits and leaves of this plant contain an unknown toxin that causes severe vomiting and diarrhea when consumed.

Is Podocarpus toxic to humans?

The red, purple, or bluish fleshy cone (popularly called a “fruit”) of most species of Podocarpus are edible, raw or cooked into jams or pies. They have a mucilaginous texture with a slightly sweet flavor. They are slightly toxic, so should be eaten only in small amounts, especially when raw.

Is Podocarpus Macrophyllus poisonous?

Most sites will tell you the fruits of the Podocarpus macrophyllus are toxic and avoid them. … The plant and seed are toxic. The seed’s aril or “receptacle” is edible. That aril can ripen to red, blue or dark purple.