Japanese Plum-Yew Cephalotaxus harringtonia

Japanese plum-yew is an evergreen, needled shrub or small tree in the yew family (Taxaceae) and native to Asia. 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 other yews, it has a broad, shrubby habit with horizontal branches but can also be trained into a small tree. This plant 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 this plant is drought and heat-tolerant and deer resistant. Its texture is medium to fine, and this yew is normally wider than tall, reaching a height of 5 to 10 feet tall and about as wide.

This plant is a conifer. The species is dioecious plant, female plants require at least one male plant to produce seeds. It produces single, naked seeds that have a fleshy coat and that are similar in appearance to plums, Although plum-like in appearance, the seeds are not edible. The seeds and foliage of all of the plants in this botanical group are generally quite poisonous if ingested but are not dangerous to handle. See this site for further information: JC Raulston Arboretum 

Japanese plum-yew works well in a woodland or shade garden as an accent or planted in mass along a border. It makes an interesting change in the landscape from the typical junipers.  

Quick ID Hints:

• Gymnosperm, linear leaves
• Two white, glaucous bands on underside
• Juvenile growth has leaves spirally arranged
• Adult growth has a V-shaped leaf pattern on branch

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