About

Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Nana' is a compact, spreading variety that reaches heights of up to 1.8 meters and can spread to around 2.5 meters in width. Its shorter, dark green needles develop a fine, delicate appearance compared to the species. This cultivar does not produce significant flowers or fruit. It demonstrates remarkable resilience to full sun exposure, urban pollution, and moderate drought conditions once it is well established.

About the genus

Cephalotaxus consists of evergreen shrubs or small trees characterized by their linear leaves, which are arranged in two ranks and bear a resemblance to yew. The plants produce fleshy green fruits that are somewhat similar to plums. Typically, male and female flowers grow on different individual plants.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Sand, Loam
Soil pH
Neutral, Acid, Alkaline
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Conifers, Shrubs
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
1-1.5 metres
Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows best in a moist but well drained soil, in part shade. It will tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and full sun in cool, moist climates. Shelter from cold, dry winds.
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed, softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings of terminal shoots.
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free.
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free