shrub

Golden Japanese Yew

Taxus cuspidata 'Aurescens'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

48 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Many decades

Native To

Japan, Korea, China, Russia

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

Taxus cuspidata is a dense, multi-stemmed, evergreen shrub. It features linear, needle-like, dark green leaves. Inconspicuous, yellowish-green flowers bloom in early spring. Female plants produce a single seed housed within a fleshy, red, cup-like structure called an aril. This is a slow-growing, dwarf, spreading cultivar prized for its brilliant golden-yellow new foliage in spring. The needles gradually turn to a uniform dark green by summer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides dense evergreen coverage, enhancing landscape structure.

Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal watering.

Provides habitat and food for birds, supporting local wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Select well-draining soil and a partially shaded site.
Tuck young plants into the ground in early spring or fall.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and promote rooting.
Prune lightly after the first year to shape the plant.
Mulch around base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Water deeply during dry periods for 6 weeks after planting.

Pro Tip

Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry spells 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches
Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t prune in late fall or winter
Avoid planting in poorly drained soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune
Spray

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Evergreen hedge providing year-round privacyStructured border with dark green foliage

Companion Plants

Boxwood Japanese Maple Hosta Fern

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Golden Japanese Yew questions

What zones can Golden Japanese Yew grow in?

Golden Japanese Yew is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Golden Japanese Yew deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Golden Japanese Yew, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Golden Japanese Yew bloom?

Golden Japanese Yew typically blooms in mid spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Golden Japanese Yew need full sun?

Golden Japanese Yew does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.