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Taxus baccata
Common name: English yew
A classic, evergreen conifer with dense, dark green foliage and red berries, Taxus baccata is a slow-growing yet long-lived plant that brings structure and elegance to gardens. Highly versatile, its perfect for hedging, topiary, or as a standalone specimen.
Type: Evergreen conifer
Height & Spread: Up to 18m tall 9m wide (can be maintained smaller with pruning)
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
Lifespan: Extremely long-lived (hundreds of years)
Hardiness: Fully hardy (H6 UK)
Toxicity: All parts, including berries, are toxic if ingested (to humans and animals)
Prefers moist, well-drained, fertile soil
Tolerant of chalk, clay, loam, and sandy soils
Avoid waterlogged or poorly drained areas
Tolerates full sun to full shade
Performs well in partial shade, especially in hot or dry areas
Water regularly when newly planted
Once established, drought-tolerant
Do not plant in soggy or poorly drained sites
Extremely hardy and resilient to UK winters
May suffer from windburn in exposed, cold locations
Pruning: Can be pruned hard or lightly to maintain shape or size
Best time: Late summer to early autumn
Ideal for hedging or topiary
Fertilising: Feed in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser if growth appears weak
Mulching: Mulch in spring to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Foliage: Dark green, flat, needle-like leaves in dense arrangements
Berries: Bright red arils appear in autumn attractive but highly toxic
Generally pest- and disease-resistant
Root rot may occur in poorly drained soil
Winter browning may occur in exposed areas
Cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer
Seeds: Slow to germinate, requires stratification (less common for home growers)
A timeless choice for formal or traditional landscapes, Taxus baccata offers year-round greenery and exceptional adaptability, thriving in sun or shade with minimal fuss.
The plant’s growth rate and size will vary depending on planting position & conditions, and bloom, foliage and interest may vary from photo upon delivery, dependant on season.
Delivery Note: Please note that unfortunately we are currently unable to deliver plants to Northern Ireland.