Dense Spreading Yew Taxus x media 'Densiformis' 7Gal
This dense, low, spreading shrub is an excellent basic foundation planting for a hedge, screen or border. The dark green foliage backs scarlet-colored, berry-like cones. A versatile and durable evergreen that provides year-round interest in the landscape and tolerates shearing well.
Provide evenly moist, well-drained soil with protection from harsh, drying winds. Water deeply, regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Once established, reduce frequency; tolerates drought. Fertilize before new growth begins in spring. For a tidy, neat appearance, prune annually to shape.
| Botanical Pronunciation | TAKS-us MEE-dee-uh |
|---|---|
| Lore | All species of this genus are poisonous. One American species is the source of the cancer drug, Taxol. In England yew trees were restricted to church yards where they were not subject to livestock grazing, which caused many animal deaths in the past. Interestingly, deer may graze on them, unaffected. Birds are also attracted to the fruit, which they eat without consequence, as the flesh is not toxic to most, and the seed passes through intact. |
| Average Size at Maturity | Slowly reaches 3 to 4 ft. tall, 4 to 6 ft. wide. |
| Bloom Time | Conifer; prized for foliage and berry-like cones. |
| Design Ideas | This wide-growing evergreen combines well with more upright growers in the mixed border or in an island planting in the lawn. Since it takes part shade, it can easily be used under a tree. |
| Deciduous/ Evergreen | Evergreen |
| Foliage Color | Green |
| Garden Style | Asian/Zen, Contemporary, Rustic |
| Growth Habit | Bushy |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Landscape Use | Border, Hedge, Mass Planting, Privacy Screen, Coastal Exposure, Wildlife Garden, Urban Garden |
| Light Needs | Full sun, Partial sun |
| Soil Needs | All-Purpose Plant Food |
| Special Feature | Dense Habit, Easy Care, Extreme Cold Hardiness, Fruit Poisonous, Waterwise, Year-round Interest, Bird Friendly |
| Water Needs | Moderate |
| Watering Needs | Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat. |
| Companion Plants | Rose (Rosa); Lilac (Syringa); Viburnum (Viburnum); Iris (Iris); Coral Bells (Heuchera) |