Shrubs
Cephalotaxus harringtonia
Japanese plum yew
Long, dark evergreen needles create a broad, softly textured shrub for shaded garden beds. It tolerates more shade than many other needled evergreens and can become quite wide. Use it where its natural spread can develop without constant size-control pruning.
At a glance
- Sun
- Part shade to shade
- Mature size
- 5–10 ft. tall × 5–14 ft. wide
- Water
- Moist, well-drained soil
- Hardiness
- USDA zones 6–9
Sizes & prices
- #1Low growing false taxus$24.99
Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.
Ask about this plantSelect a section to expand.
Resistance & tolerances
- Deer
- Resistant, but not deer-proof.
- Drought
- Tolerant once established.
- Heat
- Tolerant.
Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.
Keep in mind: Foliage and seeds are poisonous if eaten; not an edible plum.
Seasonal interest
- Foliage
- Evergreen.
Growing & care
- Pruning
- Usually little pruning needed; remove damaged growth and allow room for its natural spread.
Sources & photo credits
Photo: Cathy Dewitt · CC BY 4.0
Image notes: Japanese plum yew. Representative plant; resized and re-encoded, not cropped.
Reviewed September 21, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.