Yews (Taxus species) are valued evergreen shrubs and small trees used in landscaping for dense hedges, borders, or specimen plants. Their popularity stems from their deep green foliage and tolerance for heavy pruning, allowing them to be shaped into formal designs or topiary. Yews are often perceived as slow-growing plants, despite their longevity. The growth rate is not fixed; it varies significantly based on the specific species, cultivar, and environmental conditions. Understanding this variability is important for landscape planning.
Defining Yew Growth Rates
Yews are generally classified as slow to moderate growers compared to many other common evergreen species, making them low-maintenance once established. The typical average annual growth rate for most yew varieties falls between 4 and 12 inches per year. This range depends heavily on whether the plant is a true species or a cultivated hybrid, such as the slow-growing English Yew (Taxus baccata).
Growth is not uniform throughout a yew’s life cycle. When first planted, the shrub focuses on establishing its root system, resulting in a slower initial growth phase above ground. Once established, the plant transitions into a more vigorous phase, pushing the growth rate toward its potential maximum. This moderate speed is beneficial for hedges, as it requires less frequent trimming to maintain a formal shape.
Environmental Factors Influencing Growth
The inherent growth rate of a yew is significantly modified by external conditions. Soil quality, particularly drainage, is a primary factor, as yews are highly sensitive to waterlogged conditions. Poorly draining soil can lead to root rot and severely limit growth. Conversely, a moist, well-drained, sandy loam is ideal for promoting robust growth.
Light exposure also plays a substantial role. Yews can tolerate deep shade, but they perform best and grow faster in full sun to partial shade. In dense shade, growth may become stunted or leggy. Full sun encourages a denser, more vigorous growth habit, provided the plant is kept hydrated. Sufficient nutrient availability is also beneficial; providing fertilizer or compost can push the plant toward its maximum annual growth potential.
Growth Rates of Specific Yew Cultivars
Predicting a yew’s growth requires knowing its specific genetic type, as cultivars exhibit different growth patterns. The Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata) is known for its cold hardiness and slow overall growth rate. The English Yew (Taxus baccata) is prized for its dense foliage but is typically slower to establish and less cold-hardy than the Japanese species.
Hybrid Yews (Taxus x media) are popular varieties, created by crossing English and Japanese species to combine desirable traits. A widely used example is ‘Hicksii’ (Hicks Yew), a columnar variety that adds about 6 to 8 inches annually. This predictable growth makes ‘Hicksii’ an excellent choice for narrow hedges requiring minimal maintenance. Cultivars like ‘Dwarf Bright Gold’ are especially slow-growing, remaining compact with unique foliage color.