Taxus baccata (Yew) - Rootballed

Taxus baccata, commonly known as the English yew, is a popular evergreen shrub or tree often used for hedging purposes. It possesses several characteristics that make it a desirable choice for hedges:

1. Evergreen: Taxus baccata retains its foliage throughout the year, providing privacy and greenery in your garden, even during the winter months.
2. Dense Growth: English yew has dense, dark green foliage that can create a thick, impenetrable barrier when properly maintained.
3. Berries: Taxus baccata produces bright red berries in the fall, which are attractive to birds. However, it's important to note that the berries contain toxic compounds and should not be ingested by humans or pets.
4. Shade Tolerance: English yew is known for its tolerance of shaded conditions. It can grow well in partially shaded to full shade areas, making it suitable for planting in locations where other hedge plants might struggle due to lack of sunlight.

When planting a Taxus baccata hedge, consider the following tips:

• Choose a well-drained site with the appropriate amount of shade.
• Space the individual plants according to your desired hedge density, typically 1 to 1.5 feet apart.
• Prune and shape the hedge regularly to maintain its density and desired height.
• Be cautious when dealing with the berries, as they are toxic.

Keep in mind that English yew is a slow-growing plant, so it may take some time to achieve the desired hedge height and density. Additionally, if you have pets or small children, be aware of the toxicity of the plant's berries and take appropriate precautions to prevent ingestion. Please see our GUIDE TO PLANTING HEDGES for more info.