Yew ‘Densiformis’(Taxus media) is one of the very few conifers that can grow in full shade. Its dense, evergreen structure and compact, bushy size with ascending branches make Yew the only edible plant (caution, see warning) capable of forming a four-season privacy hedge in the shade of skyscrapers, or hiding a heat pump, air conditioner or your recycling/composting bins, especially since it has the advantage, unlike cedar, of regenerating regrowth everywhere on its branches. This makes it easy to prune to the desired shape, whatever the season. A good choice for creating topiaries. When you see a conifer shaped like a dolphin… it’s probably this one.

Tolerates atmospheric pollution and acidic, well-drained, even rather dry soils.

Yew ‘Densiformis’ benefits from accelerated growth compared with the slower-growing species. Warning: All parts of the yew, except for the red aril surrounding the seed, are highly toxic. The seed, if chewed, releases problematic toxicity… To enjoy the pulpy flesh, at least one male and one female are needed for pollination, with the females bearing the fruits. This guilt-free treat contains no gelatin or added coloring and will delight those nostalgic for “gummy candies.” You can pick these natural candies beneath the canopy of your food forest.