In China, it is known as luóhàn sōng (羅漢松), which literally means "arhat pine".

When mature, the scales swell up and become reddish purple, fleshy, and berry-like, 10–20 mm long; they are then eaten by birds, which disperse the seeds in their droppings.

It is a popular large shrub or small tree in gardens, particularly in Japan and the Southeastern United States.

Because of its resistance to termites and water, inumaki is used for quality wooden houses in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.

In recent years, the illegal digging of Buddhist pine has become a problem in the city.