Yew

What is a Yew?

Yews (Taxus) are a varied group of coniferous shrubs and trees that produce seed cones called yew berries. Yews are evergreen and have soft, flattened needles that look more like tiny leaves. Yew shrubs are very low maintenance and easy to grow. While they tend to grow on the slower side as far as growth rate, they live for a very long time. This type of plant has been around for over 200 million years. Yes, they existed with dinosaurs!

Where do Yew Trees Grow?

Yew trees grow throughout the Northern Hemisphere, including the United States. There are varieties of Yew, like the Japanese Plum, that prefer the south while most prefer the northern US. Yews grow in a range of climates and many varieties can tolerate sunny or shady sites.

How to Plant a Yew

Start by watering your Yew plant thoroughly in the pot. Next, dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and not quite as deep as the root ball is tall. Place your plant evenly in the hole. The top of the root ball should be slightly higher than the existing soil line. Backfill with the soil you removed. Water deeply until the ground is fully saturated. Apply a layer of mulch to reduce watering needs and protect your plant. Water daily for the first week, 3 times per week the 2nd and 3rd week, and 1 to 2 times weekly thereafter for the first 2 to 3 months until your plant is established.

How to Prune Yew | When to Prune Yew

Trim these plants in late winter or early spring to control size. For hedges, shear with trimmers yearly after new growth has emerged to maintain shape. Yews tolerate severe pruning which may be the best option for overgrown plants. Be sure to make some thinning cuts too to open up your old plant and reduce crowding. Remove dead or damaged branches when you notice them. Minor pruning can be performed at any time.

Hick's Yew

This Yew tree is a perfect privacy hedge or screen for cooler regions. The dense foliage and attractive red berries of this upright Yew welcome birds. This unique evergreen shrub is very easy to care for and tolerates sun or shade.

Japanese Plum Yew

This Yew shrub has lush, evergreen foliage that looks like miniature palm fronds. This low maintenance evergreen is lovely as a specimen plant. The Japanese Plum Yew is a great hedge plant. This shade loving spreading Yew is deer resistant, heat tolerant, and can grow in full shade!