Taxus baccata

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YewTree, EvergreenFamily: Taxaceae

Height: 10mSpread: 6m
Hardy

Attractive to wildlife

Foliage colour:

Green

Position

Sun Exposure:

Dappled shade, full shade, full sun

Aspect:

East facing, north facing, south facing, west facing

Position in Border:

Back

Soil

Chalky / Alkaline / Clay / Heavy / Moist / Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Yew, Taxus baccata, is a native British evergreen tree. Young plants are bushy and make a fine hedge or topiary specimen, but, if left unclipped they eventually grow into a large conifer tree. Yew withstands quite hard clipping and, if overgrown, can be rejuvenated by cutting back to the stumps. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it its prestigious Award of Garden Merit (AGM).

How to grow yew

Grow yew in moist but well-drained soil in sun or shade. To propagate, take cuttings in late summer and early autumn. Trim hedges annually to maintain a good shape. Yew trees require little pruning.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecPlantyesyesyesFruitsyesyesyes**yesPruneyes**yes

Taxus ‘Baccata’ and wildlife

Taxus ‘Baccata’ is known for attracting birds. It provides shelter and habitat, has seeds for birds and makes a good wildlife hedge.

Is not known to attract Bees

Bees

Is not known to attract Beneficial insects

Beneficial insects

Is known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Butterflies/Moths

Butterflies/Moths

Is not known to attract Other pollinators

Other pollinators

Is Taxus ‘Baccata’ poisonous?

Taxus ‘Baccata’ causes an upset stomach, irritates skin and is harmful if ingested. Its foliage and fruit are toxic.

Toxic to:

Is known to attract Cats

Cats

Is known to attract Dogs

Dogs

Is known to attract Horses

Horses

Is known to attract People

People

No reported toxicity to:

Is not known to attract Birds

Birds

Is not known to attract Livestock

Livestock