How to Grow Yew Shrub Varieties - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Yew shrub varieties is a plant that is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that typically grows to 3-6 m (9.8-19.7 ft) tall and has a conical to columnar shape. The leaves are dark green and needle-like, and the branches are arranged in whorls. The flowers are small and yellow-green, and the fruit is a red berry. Yew shrubs are popular garden plants, and there are many different varieties available. Some of the most popular varieties include the Irish yew, English yew, and American yew. Yew shrubs are relatively easy to care for, and they are tolerant of a wide range of soil and light conditions.

How to Grow Yew Shrub Varieties - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Common yew
  • English yew
  • European yew
  • French yew
  • Irish yew

Basic info

  • Yew shrubs are found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
  • They are evergreen, meaning they have leaves all year round.
  • The yew shrub's leaves are needle-like and grow in clusters.
  • Yew shrubs produce small, red berries called "arils."
  • The wood of the yew shrub is dense and strong, making it valuable for construction and furniture-making.
  • Yew shrubs are slow-growing, but can live for hundreds of years.
  • The oldest recorded yew shrub is believed to be over 3,000 years old!
  • Yew shrubs are toxic to humans and animals if ingested.
  • Yew shrubs are often used as ornamental plants in gardens and parks.
  • There are many different varieties of yew shrubs, with different shapes, sizes, and colors.

Related plant:
Hydrangea Paniculata Diamant Rouge

Growing Steps

  1. For yew shrub varieties, first step is to purchase a healthy plant from a reputable nursery.
  2. Choose a location in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
  3. Yews do not tolerate wet soil, so avoid planting in areas that stay soggy.
  4. After planting, water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
  5. Fertilize yews once a year in spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-
  6. Prune yews as needed to maintain desired shape.
  7. Yews are generally low-maintenance plants, but may be susceptible to pests and diseases such as scale, mites, aphids, and powdery mildew.
  8. Check plants regularly for pests and diseases and treat accordingly.
  9. Yews are relatively tolerant of urban pollution, but will benefit from occasional watering during dry periods.
  10. With proper care, yews can live for many years.

Related plant:
Flowering Quince Fruit

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, yew shrub varieties prefers well-drained, humus-rich soil. They also like full sun, but can tolerate partial shade. If the soil is too heavy or clay-like, it will cause the roots to rot. If the soil is too dry, the shrub will become dehydrated and may even die.

About light

Similar to other types of yew shrubs, sun light requirements for sun light loving yew shrubs vary depending on the variety. Some yew shrubs, such as the English yew, can tolerate partial shade, while others, such as the Japanese yew, need full sun to thrive. In general, yew shrubs prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering.

The Temperature

The temperature conditions that are ideal for yew shrub growth are between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, yew shrubs can also tolerate cold weather and can survive in temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40% to 60%. However, it can also tolerate a range of humidity conditions including low humidity (20-30%). It is important to not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to suffer from stress. If the leaves of the plant start to turn yellow, it is a sign that the plant is not receiving enough moisture.

Fertilizing

About fertilizer, this plant does not need a lot of fertilizer. You can actually use less fertilizer on yew shrubs than on other plants. This is because yew shrubs have a deep root system that can help them to get the nutrients they need from the soil. However, if you want to give your yew shrub a little extra boost, you can use a fertilizer with a low nitrogen content.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping yew shrubs healthy and vigorous. There are several different ways to prune yew shrubs, and the best method will depend on the type of shrub and the desired result. For example, shearing is often used to create a formal hedge, while thinning out is typically done to improve air circulation and reduce the risk of disease.

The Propagation

Propagation for yew shrub varieties is done through softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken from new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and taken from the tips of the branches. The cutting should have a heel, or a small piece of the stem attached to the leaves. These cuttings should be taken from healthy, non-flowering stems. The cuttings should be placed in a moist, well-drained soil mix and kept in a humid environment until roots have developed and new growth appears.

Plant Growth

Usually, the plant growth rate are fast when they are young. After they become established, their growth slows down. Some of the faster-growing varieties include 'Fastigiata', 'Hicksii', and 'Repandens'.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant include over watering, pest infestations, and disease. If you suspect your yew shrub is suffering from any of these problems, it is important to seek professional help immediately in order to save the plant. Over watering is the most common problem, and it can be easily fixed by making sure the plant is only watered when the soil is dry. Pest infestations can be more difficult to deal with, and if left untreated they can cause serious damage to the plant. Disease can also be a serious problem, and if you think your yew shrub has a disease it is important to seek professional help right away.

Growing Tips

  • Do not forget to water your yew regularly, especially when the weather is hot and dry.
  • Yews prefer well-drained soils, so make sure your planting area is not too wet.
  • Fertilize your yew shrubs every spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune yews lightly in early spring to control their growth.
  • Train yew shrubs by pinching back new growth to encourage a dense, compact shape.
  • Protect yews from winter damage by wrapping them in burlap or placing them in a sheltered spot.
  • Yews are relatively drought tolerant once they are established, but they will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry periods.
  • Yews are susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, so be sure to inspect them regularly and take action if you see any signs of problems.
  • Yews can be propagated from seed, cutt

Alternative Plants

  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling
  • Yelling

Source:
Managing Pests in Gardens: Trees and Shrubs: Yew—UC IPM - ucanr.edu
Evergreen Shrubs and Trees for Pennsylvania - Penn State Extension
Shrubs | Home & Garden Information Center - Clemson University

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Shrubs Category