Pacific Yew
Taxus brevifolia
Taxaceae · coniferous tree · native
Last updated
Data Coverage 3 of 6 dimensions
Pacific yew is a native conifer of western North America, ranging from southeastern Alaska to northern California. It is a slow-growing tree reaching 40 ft with gray-green foliage, brown fruit, and a fine-textured, single-stem form. The bark is thin and dark red-purple.
Pacific yew prefers partial shade with adaptable, moist soil and tolerates a pH of 6.2-7.5. Hardy in zones 5a-8b, it requires high moisture and performs best in deep forests. It develops long taproots and is notably slow-growing. All parts except the fleshy fruit are toxic.
Quick Facts
Height
40 ft
Growth Rate
Slow
Light
Part Shade
Soil
Adaptable
Water
Low
Hardiness
Zone Zones 5a–8b
Bloom Time
Jun 1-Jun 30
Origin
from extreme southeastern Alaska to northern California
Phenological Calendar
| Stage | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| New growth flush BBCH 11 | Feb 15-Mar 15 |
| Bloom start BBCH 61 | Jun 1-Jun 30 |
| Bloom end / petal fall BBCH 69 | Jun 15-Jul 15 |
| Fruit/seed development BBCH 71 | Jun 1-Aug 31 |
| Fruit/seed maturity BBCH 85 | Sep 1-Nov 30 |