Cephalotaxus harringtonii 'FASTIGIATA' Japanese plum yew

Japanese plum yew is still an uncommon evergreen conifer which was first popularized by Earl of Harrington in early 19th century. It is hardy for almost the whole area of Central Europe except for the coldest mountainous regions, and can take diversity of soil types. It comes from Japan and Fastigiata was selected there in 1861.

Fastigiata Japanese plum yew is upright, bushy, and slow growing compact conifer with erect stems with dark green needles. They emerge bright soft green colour in spring and remain lighter until midsummer. Female plants produce red, yew-like fruit with edible flesh and inedible seeds. The fruit is not as attractive or tasty as on common yews and if ingested by kids they quickly spit it out for its astringent taste. Mature plants form a prominent shape of narrow letter V with slender bottom and almost rounded tops.

Yews including plum are easy to grow. They can take almost any soil type from acidic to alkaline, will do well in full sun as well as shade. In case of Japanese plum yew we only recommend avoiding too dark places and wet soil, provide good drainage and mulch the plant for at least 3 years after transplanting in order to avoid weeds competing for moisture and nutrients. Pruning is possible in early spring but is not necessary. This variety withstands winters of zone 5 in sheltered locations, and is best grown down to zone 5b (-27°C) and not above zone 9 where hot and dry summer could cause damage.

Last update 14-11-2016