Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Duke Gardens' Play pronunciation

Japanese plum yew is an evergreen, needled shrub or small tree in the yew family (Taxaceae). The cultivar 'Duke Gardens' was discovered at Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, North Carolina and is noted for its compactness and vase shape. Its name is derived from the Greek words kephale and taxus, meaning "head" and "yew" respectively, in reference to the hard, round seeds. The specific epithet harringtonia was given in recognition of the Earl of Harrington, who became an early adopter and enthusiast of the species in the early 19th century.

Ideal for the southeastern United States, as it tolerates both the summer heat and humidity, unlike true yews, 'Duke Gardens' has a dense, spreading mounding habit. It prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates dry, sandy or clay soil. Plant it in full sun if you have cool summers; otherwise, it needs partial shade and tolerates shade better than most other needled evergreens. Once established, it is drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. 'Duke Gardens' grows slowly to 2 to 4 feet tall and wide. It is a male cultivar and will not produce seeds.

Japanese plum yew works well in small spaces, as a foundation plant, in a woodland or shade garden as an accent or in a mass planting as a hedge along a border. Its fragrant, glossy needles provide year-round interest and make an interesting change in the landscape from the typical junipers.  

Quick ID Hints:

• Gymnosperm, linear leaves.
• There are two white, glaucous bands on the underside.
• Juvenile growth has leaves spirally arranged.
• Two-ranked foliage, which is different from that of others in this genus.

Insects, Diseases and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.

More information on Cephalotaxus harringtonia.