Outstanding Qualities

Taxus baccata 'Repandens' is an exceptionally handsome evergreen conifer for sun or shade. It is low growing, with arching branches that droop at their tips. This spreading habit makes it ideal as a medium-sized groundcover, especially in woodland conditions. Like other yews, it takes pruning well, even into old wood. However, its lovely form develops best when it is given enough room to spread and is left unpruned. spreading English yew has very dark green needles year-round and is one of the few conifers that thrives in shade. It is a perfect foil for other plants, particularly ferns and shade-loving perennials, adding texture and substance to the garden. spreading English yew can also be used for a low hedge.

Culture Notes

Taxus baccata 'Repandens' prefers well-drained soil and is drought tolerant once established. Plant it in full sun or light to open shade. 'Repandens' is a female clone, so it bears fruit. Yew bark, foliage and fruit can be toxic, so site plants with care. spreading English yew is generally pest and disease free, but it can get scale (and the resulting sooty mold) and black vine weevil. This is one of the hardier clones of English yew, tolerating temperatures as low as -20 degrees F/-28 degrees C.