About
A pyramidal, evergreen shrub, growing slowly to about 5m by 2m, with arching branches and yellow, or yellow-edged, needles.
About the genus
Taxus are small evergreen trees or large shrubs of rounded habit, with dense, linear leaves, insignificant flowers and, on female plants, conspicuous fleshy red arils surrounding the solitary seeds
Growing conditions
SunlightFull shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden
ToxicityTOXIC if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling. TOXIC to pets if eaten - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Care notes
CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil. Slow growing, and tolerant of exposure, urban pollution, and shade
PruningNo regular pruning necessary, but can be trimmed and shaped when required
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or grafting
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to tortrix moth, vine weevil, gall mites and scale insects
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to phytophthora root diseases