Description

Taxus Fastigiata forms a tight, columnar silhouette with ascending branches clothed in rich, dark-green needles. Its dignified vertical lines provide instant structure as a specimen, in pairs flanking paths or doorways, or repeated as formal punctuation along borders. While its “flowers” are inconspicuous in late winter to early spring, female plants can bear showy red arils in late summer to fall when a male yew is nearby.

Durable and adaptable, this yew tolerates full sun to shade, responds well to pruning and shearing, and thrives in well-drained soils. It is a superb choice where space is limited but height and permanence are desired.

Suggested Uses

• Formal hedge or screen
• Specimen & accents
• Topiary & shaping
• Large containers
• Entryway pairings
• Bright shade gardens
• Architectural interest

Plant Details

Botanical Name

Taxus Fastigiata (commonly sold as Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’)

Common Name

Taxus Fastigiata (Irish Yew)

Size & Growth

10–20 ft tall x 3–5 ft wide at maturity; narrow, columnar habit; long-lived

Hardiness Zones

USDA 5–7 (with protection in exposed Zone 4; avoid hot, humid Zone 8+)

Foliage Type

Evergreen needles; dense, dark green on upright branches

Bloom Time

Inconspicuous in late winter–early spring; red arils (on females) late summer–fall if pollinated

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate (typically 6–12 in/yr once established)

Light Requirements

Full sun to partial shade; tolerates bright full shade but may loosen slightly; afternoon shade in hot climates

Attracts Pollinators

No — wind-pollinated; not a nectar/pollen resource for insects

Indoor Friendly

Not recommended; best grown outdoors with seasonal temperature swings

Container Friendly

Yes — performs well in large, well-drained containers; excellent for entries and terraces

Deer Resistant

Generally deer-resistant due to toxicity, though light browsing may occur in scarce forage

Pet Warning

All parts except the red aril flesh are highly toxic to pets and people if ingested

Fragrant

No—foliage and flowers are not notably fragrant

Cut Flower

Valued for long-lasting evergreen stems in winter arrangements (not for edible use)

Grows Well With

Boxwood, Japanese holly, hemlock, hosta, ferns, hellebores, hydrangeas, red-twig dogwood, heuchera, ornamental grasses

Care Tips

Planting Instructions

Plant in spring or fall. Set the root flare at or slightly above soil level; tease out circling roots. Backfill with native soil, water thoroughly, and mulch 2–3 in, keeping mulch off the stem.

Soil Moisture

Evenly moist during establishment; moderate drought tolerance thereafter. Avoid soggy or waterlogged sites.

Soil Type

Well-drained loam or sandy loam; tolerant of slightly alkaline or neutral pH. Heavy clay must drain well to prevent root issues.

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity with good air circulation; shelter from harsh winter winds and intense reflected heat.

Pruning Instructions

Prune in late winter to early spring. Shear lightly for hedges; tip-prune to maintain columnar form. Yews will resprout from older wood if renovation is needed.

Winter Care

Water deeply before ground freezes and apply mulch. Protect young plants from drying winds; burlap wrap in exposed sites if necessary.

Planting Depth

Top of root ball 0–1 in above surrounding soil; do not bury the crown. Space columns 3–5 ft apart, depending on desired density.

Fertilization

Light feeder. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if growth is weak; avoid late-summer nitrogen to prevent tender growth.

Special Care

Ensure sharp drainage; do not overwater. Extremely toxic if ingested—site away from livestock and curious pets/children. Stake young plants if needed to maintain a straight column.