Species

Taxus mediaAnglo-Japanese Yew

6 other cultivars

shrub

Hill's Yew

Taxus media 'Hillii'

The Story

Plant Bio

Taxus × media hybrids combine the ornamental qualities of English yew with the superior winter hardiness of Japanese yew. These evergreen conifers feature dense, needle-like foliage and adapt well to shearing, making them highly valued for structural landscaping.

'Hillii' is a strictly male cultivar that grows in a dense, upright, ovoid-columnar form without producing any messy red arils. The dark green needles are accented by bright light green new growth that emerges in spring.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a dense, dark green, formal structure that retains its color year-round.

A clean, litter-free choice for hedges near walkways because it does not produce messy red berries.

Provides dense structural cover and nesting habitat for small birds.

SpeciesTaxus mediaAnglo-Japanese Yew

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

197"

Width

157"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Low to moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long

Native To

Hybrid origin

Toxicity

Highly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Spring

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with excellent drainage, avoiding low spots or heavy clay pockets.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the crown sits slightly above the soil line.
Backfill with native soil mixed with organic matter if needed to improve drainage, and water thoroughly.
Apply a thin layer of mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the main stems to prevent rot.

Pro Tip

Plant in elevated beds or sloped areas to ensure rapid drainage; standing water or heavy, compacted soil triggers fatal Phytophthora root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Prune in early spring before new growth emerges to maintain a tight, formal shape.
Ensure the soil drains completely after heavy rains.
Protect young plants from extreme hot afternoon sun in dry microclimates.

Don't

Do not plant in low-lying areas or heavy clay soils where water collects.
Do not allow livestock, dogs, or cats to browse any part of the toxic foliage.
Do not overwater once the root system is established.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Formal HedgesFoundation PlantingsPrivacy ScreensTopiary

Companion Plants

Buxus sempervirens Hydrangea arborescens Hosta

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Hill's Yew questions

What zones can Hill's Yew grow in?

Hill's Yew is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Hill's Yew deer resistant?

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

When does Hill's Yew bloom?

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

Does Hill's Yew need full sun?

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

Is Hill's Yew drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hill's Yew handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.