Japanese Yew

Add striking vertical interest to your landscape with Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata), a versatile evergreen prized for its dense, deep green foliage and elegant growth habit. Perfect for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a sculptural accent, this slow-growing conifer provides year-round beauty while maintaining a refined, upright form.

Thriving in sun or shade, Japanese Yew is highly adaptable to various soil conditions and is both drought-tolerant and deer-resistant, making it a low-maintenance favorite for homeowners and landscapers alike. Its soft needles and tolerance for pruning make it an excellent choice for formal gardens, naturalized spaces, and topiary designs. Whether used as a privacy screen, a border plant, or a focal point, this resilient evergreen enhances any outdoor space with structure and timeless appeal.

Growth Rate and Mature Size

Japanese Yew grows at a slow to moderate rate, typically reaching a height of 10 to 20 feet with a spread of 6 to 12 feet, making it an excellent choice for hedging, privacy screens, or specimen plantings.

Watering and Sunshine

This yew thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil and requires moderate watering, especially in its early years. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as it prefers well-aerated soil.

Japanese Yew grows well in full sun to full shade, making it one of the most adaptable evergreens for a wide range of landscapes. It maintains its lush green color year-round and performs well even in low-light conditions.