Species Florida yew

Florida yew

Taxus floridana

Florida yew (Taxus floridana) is an evergreen shrub native to the Southeastern United States. It grows up to 15 feet tall and 8 feet wide, typically in acidic sandy soils. Its needles are dark green and lance-shaped with a glossy sheen, and its bark is dark brown with raised ridges. Its orange berries have a sweet-sour flavor that attracts birds and other wildlife. It is drought and wind tolerant. Florida yew is used in landscapes and in its native range as a groundcover, screen, and even topiary. It is slow-growing but long-lived, making it a great option for gardeners looking for a low-maintenance addition to their yard.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Florida yew should be watered once to twice a week, depending on the season and temperatures. In summer and periods of high temperatures, more frequent watering is needed. Try to water when the soil feels dry to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. In winter, water only when the soil is completely dry. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. When watering, always water the soil thoroughly, making sure the top of the soil is damp.

sunlight

The Florida yew (Taxus floridana) thrives in shady, moist and well-drained environments. Its needles have a glossy green sheen and its foliage is dense in nature, creating attractive green mats. It prefers partial to full shade and can tolerate a few hours of direct afternoon sun in cooler climates. During the summer months, it needs some relief from the hot sun in order to remain healthy. Early morning light is preferred but direct afternoon sun should be avoided as much as possible. It can also benefit from some filtered light, such as through a window or a lattice. Direct sunlight may cause the needles to burn, and could also lead to wilting of the foliage.

pruning

Florida Yew (Taxus floridana) should be pruned in early winter or late autumn, when the danger of cold weather is past. Pruning should be minimal and only used to thin or remove damaged branches. Make sure to leave the smaller branches and buds, as these will produce flowering growth, resulting in more fruit. When pruning Florida Yew, it's important to use caution as pruning too much or at the wrong times can damage the plant. To prevent stem dieback, avoid pruning in the middle of summer or during the peak of dormancy.

Season

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

Taxus floridana typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map