Taxus baccata – Timeless Evergreen for Structure and Year-Round Interest

Taxus baccata, commonly known as English Yew, is a classic, slow-growing evergreen conifer valued for its dense, dark green foliage and versatility. Ideal for hedging, topiary, or as a standalone specimen, Yew brings structure, formality, and all-season interest to any garden. It is long-lived, hardy, and easy to shape, making it a staple of traditional British landscapes.

Best positioned in full sun to full shade, Yew thrives in well-drained soil and is tolerant of chalk, clay, and exposed sites. It’s highly suited to formal gardens, boundary planting, and low-maintenance evergreen screens.

Care tips: Water regularly during the first year after planting. Once established, it is extremely drought tolerant and requires minimal upkeep. Avoid waterlogged soils, which can lead to root problems.

Yew produces tiny flowers in spring (March–April), followed by red, berry-like fruits in autumn on female plants, which are attractive to birds (though toxic to humans and pets if ingested).

Feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser to support healthy growth.

Prune in late summer (August–September) or early spring to maintain shape. It responds well to hard pruning, even into old wood.

Taxus baccata is a durable, elegant evergreen perfect for UK gardens of any style.