Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’

Irish yew

Outstanding Qualities Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’ is an extremely useful evergreen conifer for sun or shade. Most commonly used for hedging purposes, it has a naturally upright form and takes shearing well. It was discovered in Ireland in 1780 and has been a favorite for formal hedges ever since. A hedge of Irish yew, with its dense form and dark green color, makes a dramatic backdrop for a perennial or mixed shrub border. Irish yews are often used individually, as a vertical exclamation point in a border or paired to set off an entryway. Plants are more expensive and slower growing than the more common cedar hedging, but the wait is worthwhile. As yews are among the few conifers that thrive in dry shade, they can be used to provide a textural contrast to other plants in a shady garden.
Culture Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’ prefers well-drained soil and is drought tolerant once established. Plant it in full sun or shade. ‘Fastigiata’ is a female clone, so it bears fruit. Yew bark, foliage, and fruit can be toxic, so site plants with care. Irish yew is generally pest and disease free, but it can get scale (and the resulting sooty mold) and black vine weevil. For a hedge, set plants 2 feet on center and shear as required. Like all yews (but unlike most conifers), it can be pruned back to old wood and will resprout readily.
Growing Habit Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’ will reach 7 to 8 feet high by 3 feet wide in ten years. Ultimately, it can reach up to 20 feet high if left unpruned.
Hardiness USDA zones 6 to 9
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