Dense Spreading Yew

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

3-5 Feet

Mature Spread

5-6 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

The Dense Spreading Yew is an evergreen shrub that lives up to its name. Also known as Taxus cuspidata 'Densiformis', this conifer is a hardy plant that can easily live in challenging conditions and requires minimal care once acclimated. Short, needle-like foliage grows from branched stems, creating a full-looking plant.

This plant has a full, upright growth habit. Use the Dense Spreading Yew as a foundation planting, create a hedge along a property line, or shield a patio. As an evergreen, this plant provides year-round color. This shrub has a nice natural shape, but responds well to pruning if you prefer a manicured look.

Dense Spreading Yew Care

Plant this yew in full to partial sunlight. The Dense Spreading Yew needs at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should be moist, well drained, and close to a neutral pH. New plants need consistent watering for the first couple of years, while established plants need water about weekly, depending on rainfall. Starting in the second year, fertilize this yew once during the spring using a balanced or high-nitrogen plant food.

Pruning is unnecessary, but giving the plant a trim can maintain a desirable shape and encourage new growth. Trim the plant during the spring before new growth appears. Cut back branches to joints or where several branches diverge to encourage new stems to form.

Dense Spreading Yew Spacing

The Dense Spreading Yew grows 3 to 5 feet tall and 5 to 6 feet wide, making it an ideal size and shape for a hedge. Space plants 3 to 4 feet apart to create a continuous hedge.