Evergreen Shrub – Spreading Japanese Plum Yew

Spreading Japanese Plum Yew 

Botanical name: cephalotaxus harringtonia ‘prostrata’ 

Beginner friendly?: yes

Average size at maturity: 2-3 ft in height with a spread of 3-4 ft 

Hardy zone: zones 6-9 

Growth rate: grows 3-6 inches per year 

Foliage color: green 

Pruning instructions: lightly prune in the late winter/early spring before new growth begins to emerge to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate with cuttings during the fall months 

Landscape use: foundation planting, mass planting, hedge

Special features: deer resistant, heat tolerant, shade tolerant 

Light needs: 4-6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the early spring, before new growth begins to emerge 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil: loam 

Companion plants: azaleas, japanese forest grass, heuchera 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets if ingested 

Invasive species: no