Taxus media 'Densiformis'
shrub

Densiformis Yew

Taxus media 'Densiformis'

$49.99
Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Very long-lived evergreen shrub

Native To

Hybrid Origin

Toxicity

All parts are highly toxic if ingested, except the fleshy red aril.

The Story

Plant Bio

Taxus x media, or Anglo-Japanese Yew, is a hybrid evergreen conifer known for its dense, dark green foliage and high tolerance for shearing and shade. 'Densiformis' is a versatile, dense, spreading cultivar that is wider than it is tall, making it an excellent choice for low hedges and foundation plantings.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesWith its dense, dark green foliage, 'Densiformis' provides a lush, formal texture to the landscape year-round. Its spreading habit creates a solid mass of green, and female plants produce attractive, berry-like red arils that contrast nicely with the needles.
Practical UsesThis yew is a workhorse in the landscape, ideal for creating low hedges, defining borders, and covering foundations. Its high tolerance for shearing allows it to be shaped into precise geometric forms for formal gardens. It is also highly shade tolerant.
Ecological BenefitsThe dense branches provide excellent cover and nesting sites for small birds. The red arils are a food source for birds like cedar waxwings and robins, who can eat the fleshy part without being harmed by the toxic seed inside.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

In Stock$49.99
In Stock$74.46

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a site with well-drained soil in sun or shade.
  2. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
  3. Gently loosen the roots and place the plant in the hole.
  4. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  5. Backfill with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
  6. Water deeply after planting and mulch to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Ensure excellent drainage; yews will not tolerate 'wet feet' and are highly susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Prune annually to maintain desired shape and size.
  • Provide protection from harsh winter winds in colder climates.
  • Water during prolonged dry spells, especially in the first year.
  • Plant in a location with good air circulation.

Don't

  • Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
  • Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
  • Don't allow heavy snow to accumulate and break branches.
  • Never ingest any part of the plant; it is highly toxic.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Pest Check
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Classic low formal hedgeReliable foundation plantingLush mass planting for groundcover

Companion Plants

Hosta sieboldiana 'Elegans' Hydrangea arborescens 'Annabelle' Heuchera 'Palace Purple' Astilbe chinensis 'Visions' Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Densiformis Yew questions

What zones can Densiformis Yew grow in?

Densiformis 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 Densiformis Yew deer resistant?

Yes — Densiformis Yew is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Densiformis Yew bloom?

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

Does Densiformis Yew need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Densiformis 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play