A dense, dark-green conifer that tolerates hard clipping, making it the classic choice for formal hedges and topiary. All parts except the red aril are highly toxic to people and pets if eaten.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 6 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About English Yew
Taxus baccata is a slow-growing shrub in the Taxaceae family. It reaches around 6 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage.
Where to grow English Yew
English Yew suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
English Yew does best in free-draining and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 2.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
English Yew is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune English Yew in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using English Yew in the garden
English Yew earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, clipping into topiary and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair English Yew with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
Note that it is toxic to cats and dogs, so site it away from pets that chew. All parts can be toxic if eaten, so keep it away from small children.
Buying English Yew
Plant Sale lists English Yew as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.