Western Yew Taxus brevifolia

Western yew is a woody, needled evergreen tree or shrub in the yew family (Taxaceae). It is native to Alaska and the western United States and can grow 6 to 12 feet tall and 3 to 6 feet wide. In the wild, it is found in dense forests, along stream banks, slopes, ravines, coves, and flats. 

The western yew requires partial shade. It prefers moist conditions and good drainage but can tolerate occasional dry spells. The planting space needed depends on the light conditions. When growing in densely forested locations, where a closed canopy exists, it will grow as a tree. In drier, more open spaces, its habit will be more like a shrub. In these instances, it can form broad mats that will grow much wider than tall. It is easy to grow from seed. 

The timber from this tree is heavy, hard, and strong. It is often used for making fence posts, tool handles, and canoe paddles.

Use western yew in a shade garden as an accent or in naturalized or woodland areas as an understory tree. Employ it in the landscape as a barrier or privacy screen. 

The bright red fruits that appear on the female yew are a food source for wildlife. It is a host plant for the Mottled Gray Carpet (Cladara limitaria), Common Eupithecia (Eupithecia miserulata) and the Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea)moths.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: It may rot from the inside. Needle blight and root disease are diseases that can affect the plant's health. Insect issues include grape mealybug, budworm, and Asiatic garden beetle.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

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