Taxus x media 'Densiformis' (Dense Anglo Japanese Yew)


Michael's Opinion

Displays the growth habits of the English Yew with the hardiness and qualities of the Japanese Yew, a winning combination!

Botanical Information

FamilyTaxaceae
GenusTaxus
Speciesx media
Cultivar'Densiformis'
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginDensiformis was first cultivated in Wellesley, Massachusetts, in 1900 by D. Hatfield.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone6a - 6b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6a - 6b
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7 - H5
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height1-2 m
Spread1-1.5 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodApril

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA very long lived garden species with a very vigorous root system which helps maintain the plants longevity once it is established. This yew is still heavily used in landscape design and foundation planting for its toughness and hardiness.
ID CharacteristicIt is difficult to identify the cultivar if the specimen has been drastically pruned. A wide pyramidal habit, with distinct leaders on each branch and has been described as a small tree to large shrub due to its potential size.
ShapeSlightly loose rounded form.
LandscapeAppropriate use for uniform shaped hedges, background, against a building to hide the foundation, in mass plantings, as a screen from wind or noise as well as for topiary use.
PropagationPropagated from terminal branch cuttings, container or field grown for many years until a suitable size. Spring or autumn planting is suggested for best root establishment.
CultivationMoist and well draining slightly acidic to neutral loam soils. Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade.
PestsPossible pests are black vine weevils, mealy bugs, mites and scale. Potential diseases that may occur are needle blight, dieback and root rot.
Notable SpecimensThe Gardens of Fanshawe College, London, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSlightly smooth bark that runs in a curvy longitudinal manner with the length of the specimen, displaying small notches and grooves where pre-existing small branches were once attached.
Leaf DescriptionVery short needles for this cultivar, lustrous dark green and slightly duller on the underside. Juvenile growth is very distinct as its colour is a very light bright green.
Flower DescriptionDioecious plant that needs both sexes present to develop, seed. Flowers in late March and early April.
Fruit DescriptionRed arials covering a hard green seed centre that is generally 5-8 mm in diameter.
Colour DescriptionBright green lustrous top leaf colour and slightly duller on the underside.
Texture DescriptionRigid and strong standing large shrub or small tree.

Photographs