Family: Cephalotaxaceae
Common Name; Plum-yew

All of these species of yew-like conifers are native to eastern Asia. Mostly shrubs, though occasionally small trees, their branches spread horizontally to ground level and their dark green leaves are similar to those of the yew. They are dioecious, with pollen sacs on the male plant and seed-bearing scales on the female. Following pollination, the large seeds develop to around the size and shape of olives, and are green or brown depending on the species. They tolerate warmer climates better than the yews and are quite tough and usually free from disease.

Species

C. fortunei, Chinese plum-yew, is originally from China. This tall, handsome shrub or small tree has irregular, spreading branches, sometimes reaching 10 m (33 ft) in height with age. The gently curved leaves, around 5-8 cm (2-3 in), are the longest of all the species. The oval fruits are shiny brown when ripe.

C. harringtonia, Japanese plum-yew, from China, Korea and Japan, is a bushy shrub or tree which grows to around 6m (20 ft). It has long, horizontal branches, crowded branchlets, upward-pointing leaves, 2-3 cm (about 1 in) long, and brown seeds when ripe. Best known and most interesting of all in cultivation is cultivar 'Fastigiata'. It is different from the species as it has densely crowded, vertical branches and rarely grows taller than 5 m (16 ft) and wider than 2 m (6 ft). The small leaves are radially arranged in densely clustered whorls. It is usually sterile.

Cultivation

The main requirements are a moist soil and a sunny location. However, where summers are very hot grow in partial shade. Trimming is only necessary if a more formal effect is required. Propagate by seed if obtainable or by cuttings which strike easily. C. harringtonia cultivar 'Fastigiata' can be propagated only from cuttings.

Climate

Zone 7.