Duke Gardens Plum Yew
Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Duke Gardens'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
36 inches
Width
42 inches
Light
Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
Japan, Korea, China
Toxicity
All parts are toxic if ingested, except for the fleshy covering of the seed.
The Story
Plant Bio
Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Duke Gardens' is an evergreen shrub with dense, dark green, linear foliage that forms a compact, bushy habit, producing subtle, cone-like inflorescences in late winter to early spring. This cultivar is distinguished by its vigorous growth, fine-textured foliage, and excellent adaptability to shade, making it an ideal low-maintenance hedge or specimen plant in shaded gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck cuttings in moist soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Apply slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Prune lightly after new growth appears.
- Mulch around base to retain moisture.
- Protect from harsh winter winds.
Pro Tip
Ensure well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape after new growth
- Mulch to retain moisture
Don't
- Don’t overwater in winter ❌
- Avoid heavy pruning in late fall
- Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Duke Gardens Plum Yew questions
What zones can Duke Gardens Plum Yew grow in?
Duke Gardens Plum Yew is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Duke Gardens Plum Yew deer resistant?
Yes — Duke Gardens Plum Yew is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Duke Gardens Plum Yew bloom?
Duke Gardens Plum Yew typically blooms in early spring through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Duke Gardens Plum Yew need full sun?
Duke Gardens Plum Yew does best in part shade.
Is Duke Gardens Plum Yew drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Duke Gardens Plum Yew handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Duke Gardens Plum Yew with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
