Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fastigiata'

RHS Plant Profile
Japanese plum yew 'Fastigiata'
Conifers

A slow-growing, columnar, evergreen shrub or small tree to around 4m tall. Narrow, pointed, dark green leaves to 5cm long are arranged radially around the erect stems. Oval, olive-green fruits to 2.5cm long are borne on female plants in autumn

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

2.5-4 metres

Max Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
1.5-2.5 metres
Max Height
2.5-4 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or North–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Taxaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus
Cephalotaxus are evergreen shrubs or small trees, with 2-ranked, linear leaves resembling yew foliage, and somewhat plum-like, fleshy green fruits; male and female flowers are usually on separate plants
Name Status
Accepted

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grows best in a moist, well drained soil in part shade but will tolerate a wide range of soils. Shelter from cold, dry winds

Propagation

Propagate by seed or softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings of terminal shoots

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

No pruning required but will tolerate hard restorative pruning if needed

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free