Taunton Spreading Yew: Versatile, Easy-Care Evergreen for Year-Round Interest!

Taunton Spreading Yew (Taxus x media 'Tauntonii') Pollination Information

Taunton Spreading Yew (Taxus x media 'Tauntonii') is a dioecious plant, meaning that it has separate male and female plants. Female plants produce small, round, berry-like structures called arils that contain the yew's seeds. However, a male plant is required to pollinate the female plant in order for the arils to grow.

The pollination process involves the transfer of pollen from the male plant's cones to the female plant's ovules. This can be accomplished through wind or with the help of insects, including bees and flies.

It is important to note that the yew's pollen can be toxic to some animals, including horses, so it is recommended to keep them away from yew trees during pollination season.

To ensure successful pollination and fruiting, it is advised to plant at least one male plant for every three to five female plants, and to space the plants about 10 to 12 feet apart.

Taunton Spreading Yew (Taxus x media 'Tauntonii') FAQs

What is Taunton Spreading Yew (Taxus x media 'Tauntonii')?

Taunton spreading yew is a low-maintenance, evergreen shrub that grows slowly and maintains a consistent shape. It is named for its habit of spreading over the ground, rather than growing upward like many other yews.

What are the growing conditions for Taunton Spreading Yew?

Taunton spreading yew thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with plenty of organic matter. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but performs best in partly sunny areas. It is winter hardy to Zone 4.

How do you propagate Taunton Spreading Yew?

Taunton spreading yew is propagated by taking softwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4 inches long and taken from new growth that is still soft. They can be propagated in a mixture of peat and perlite, under high humidity, and kept out of direct sunlight. Rooting should occur within six to eight weeks.

How do you care for Taunton Spreading Yew?

Taunton spreading yew needs very little care once established. Water young plants regularly until they are established. Mulch around plants to keep the soil moist and control weeds. Prune in early spring just before new growth begins to shape the plant and remove any dead or damaged branches.

What are the pests and diseases that affect Taunton Spreading Yew?

Taunton spreading yew is relatively pest and disease free. However, it may be susceptible to Phytophthora root rot, which can be prevented by avoiding excessively wet soil and improving soil drainage. It may also be affected by scale insects, which can be removed by scraping off with a hard-bristled brush or treated with insecticidal soap.

Planting & Care for Taunton Spreading Yew (Taxus x media 'Tauntonii')

Planting

• The Taunton Spreading Yew is best planted in a location with full or partial sun exposure.
• The soil must be well-draining and moist, but not waterlogged.
• Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
• Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, gently packing down the soil around the roots.
• Water the yew deeply immediately after planting.

Care

• Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the first growing season.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the yew to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Prune the Taunton Spreading Yew to maintain its desired shape in early spring.
• Fertilize the yew once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Monitor for signs of common issues such as spider mites and fungal diseases.
• Consider deer resistance when planting, as the yew is often a popular target for deer.