Yew
Taxus baccata
treeverifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team
A slow-growing, long-lived evergreen conifer with dark green needle-like foliage and distinctive bright red berry-like arils. Yews are extremely hardy and shade-tolerant, making them excellent for hedging, topiary, and formal gardens. All parts of the plant except the red aril are highly toxic and should be handled with care.
Common Problems
Select the problem your Yew is experiencing to get a treatment guide.
Care Guide
light_mode
Light
Full shade to partial sun; tolerates deep shade better than most conifers
water_drop
Water
Moderate water needs once established; drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture in first 2 years
compost
Soil
Well-draining, fertile soil; tolerates chalk, clay, and acidic soils
science
Fertiliser
Minimal fertilizer needed; apply balanced fertilizer in spring for young trees
thermometer
Temperature
Hardy to extremely cold temperatures; no heat stress concerns
humidity_percentage
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity; established trees are quite resilient
Toxicity
dangerousToxic to CatsdangerousToxic to DogsdangerousToxic to Children
All parts except the red aril are toxic; contains taxine alkaloids which affect the heart
Common Diseases
Common Pests
Seasonal Care
local_floristspring
Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.
light_modesummer
Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.
ecoautumn
Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.
ac_unitwinter
Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.
More from GreenScout
assignmentwater_dropmapcomparedangerousarticle
Get a personalised care plan
AI-generated for your plant
Watering calculator
How often should you water?
Find your USDA zone
Check if this plant suits your climate
Compare this plant
Side-by-side with similar species
Toxicity guide
Safe for pets and children?
Plant care articles
Expert guides and how-tos