Japanese Yew
Taxus cuspidata
Taxaceae · coniferous tree · introduced
Last updated
Data Coverage 4 of 6 dimensions
Japanese yew is an evergreen conifer native to Japan, Korea, Manchuria, and parts of China. It reaches 65 ft and has green foliage, red arils, and reddish-brown bark. The plant exhibits an erect, single-crown form with medium-textured needles and yellow flowers.
Japanese yew is hardy in zones 4a-8b and prefers part shade with well-drained soil (pH 5.4-7.8). Growth is slow with low maintenance requirements. It tolerates heavy shade, rabbits, and drought stress, making it adaptable to various landscape conditions. Like other yews, all parts except the arils are poisonous.
Quick Facts
Height
65 ft
Spread
32 ft
Growth Rate
Slow
Light
Part Shade
Soil
Well Drained
Water
Moderate
Hardiness
Zone Zones 4a–8b
Bloom Time
Non-flowering
Origin
Japan, Korea
Phenological Calendar
| Stage | Typical Window |
|---|---|
| New growth flush BBCH 11 | Feb 15-Mar 15 |
| Bloom start BBCH 61 | Apr 1-Apr 30 |
| Bloom end / petal fall BBCH 69 | Apr 15-May 15 |
| Fruit/seed development BBCH 71 | Jun 1-Aug 31 |
| Fruit/seed maturity BBCH 85 | Sep 1-Nov 30 |
Diseases (2)
Pests (5)
Cultivars (5)
'Amersfoort'
Common name: Amersfoort Yew
Hardy to USDA Zone 6
'Capitata Aurea'
Common name: Golden Japanese Yew
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Cross Spreading'
Common name: Cross Spreading Japanese Yew; Mature height: 3–4 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Dwarf Bright Gold'
Common name: Dwarf Bright Gold Japanese Yew; Mature height: 2–4 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Emerald Spreader'
Common name: Emerald Spreader Japanese Yew; Mature height: 8–10 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4