Species Japanese yew
red fruits with lime leaves and brown stems

Japanese yew

Taxus cuspidata 'Capitata'

Also Known As - Japanese yew
Japanese Yew is an evergreen conifer species native to Japan. Growing up to 10m in height, it has dense, dark green foliage and globe-shaped red fruit. Its bright red berries ripen in the fall and emit a subtle aroma. This adaptable species prefers full sun locations with acidic, well-drained soil and can tolerate shade. Japanese Yew is popular for its hardiness and low maintenance needs. It's an excellent choice for hedges, screens, background, and foundation plantings.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Deep shade, Filtered shade, Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

red Fruits In Summer Ready In

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

The Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata 'Capitata') requires moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. Water the plant deeply about once a week when the soil is dry; water slowly until the water flows from the drainage holes. Do not allow the soil to become soggy. During hotter months, the Japanese yew may need to be watered more often. Make sure to keep the soil evenly moist and not overwater to avoid root rot. When the temperature drops, you can slow down on the watering.

sunlight

Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata 'Capitata') prefers partial to full sun. For optimal growth, your Japanese yew should receive direct sunlight for 4 to 6 hours a day. Ideally, it would be best to receive early morning sun, followed by some afternoon shade. In very hot climates, it should be placed in shade during the heat of the day.

pruning

Japanese yew can be pruned almost any time of year. However, it is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring. Pruning should involve selective thinning of branches and removal of any deadwood. If this is done every 2-3 years, it will help the plant maintain its natural shape and keep its density. Additionally, if needed, pruning of overgrown branches in early summer or fall can be done as well.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Taxus cuspidata 'Capitata' (Japanese yew) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Japanese yew typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The harvesting season for Taxus cuspidata 'Capitata' (Japanese yew) typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map