Taxus baccata (Yew)

Taxus baccata, commonly known as Yew, is a versatile, long-lived evergreen conifer valued for its dense dark green foliage, elegant form and ability to withstand regular clipping. It is an excellent choice for hedging, screening, formal planting and specimen trees.

Yew develops dense, dark green needle-like foliage, providing year-round colour, structure and privacy. Its naturally versatile growth habit means it can be clipped into a neat, formal hedge or allowed to develop into an impressive specimen.

Female plants produce distinctive bright red, fleshy berries, each surrounding a single seed. These add attractive colour and seasonal interest against the dark evergreen foliage.

Yew is particularly valued for its suitability as a hedging plant, where its dense growth and tolerance of regular pruning make it ideal for creating formal boundaries and screens. It can also make a striking specimen plant when allowed to develop naturally.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Good drainage is important, particularly in heavy or waterlogged ground.

With its dense evergreen foliage, long lifespan and excellent response to pruning, Taxus baccata is a classic choice for formal hedging, screening and feature planting.