Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew (Taxus cuspidata 'Captain') Pollination Info

Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew is a dioecious tree, meaning the male and female flowers are on separate trees. It is important to have a male tree nearby to correctly pollinate the female tree to produce viable seeds and fruit.

The male flowers of the Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew are small, yellowish-green cones that appear in early spring. The female flowers are also small cones, but they are larger and green. The female trees produce red, berry-like fruit that is attractive to birds but toxic to humans and animals if ingested.

Pollination of the female tree occurs through wind and insects carrying pollen from the male tree to the female flowers. It is recommended to plant at least one male tree for every five female trees to help ensure proper pollination.

Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew is a slow-growing tree and may take several years to produce fruit after successful pollination.

Overall, proper pollination is essential for the Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew to produce viable seeds and fruit, making it important to consider planting a nearby male tree when selecting the location for a female tree.

Frequently Asked Questions for Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew (Taxus cuspidata 'Captain')

1. What is Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew is a variant of the Japanese yew shrub, scientifically known as Taxus cuspidata. It is commonly grown for its narrow, columnar shape and its dark green foliage.

2. How tall can Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew grow?

This yew variety can grow up to 15 feet tall and 5 feet wide at maturity.

3. What is the best soil type for Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy to clay soils.

4. What is the best location to plant Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

This yew shrub prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may not grow as vigorously.

5. What is the watering requirement for Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew prefers moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged. Water the shrub deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather condition and soil type.

6. How often should Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew be fertilized?

Yew shrubs are generally low-maintenance and do not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew once or twice a year, in early spring and late fall, with a slow-release fertilizer.

7. How do you prune Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

This yew variety does not require frequent pruning, but you can shape it in early spring if necessary. Trim the tips of the branch to promote bushy growth, but avoid cutting back into older wood as this can result in bare patches.

8. What are the common pests and diseases of Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew?

Yew shrubs are generally pest-free but may suffer from occasional spider mite infestations. Diseases that can affect yews include root rot, blight, and cankers. Proper care and maintenance can minimize the risk of pest and disease problems.

Planting & Care for Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew (Taxus cuspidata 'Captain')

Planting Instructions:

• Choose a well-draining location with partial to full sun exposure.
• Dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and at the same depth as the container.
• Add organic matter to the bottom of the hole and mix with the surrounding soil.
• Gently place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down lightly to remove air pockets.
• Water thoroughly.

Care Instructions:

• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system.
• After establishment, water deeply once a week during periods of drought.
• Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring before new growth begins.
• Prune in the late winter or early spring to maintain shape and promote new growth.
• Watch for signs of disease and pests, such as yellowing needles or webbing, and treat promptly.

The Captain Upright Pyramidal Yew is a slow-growing and low-maintenance evergreen shrub that can grow up to 12 feet tall and 6 feet wide. With proper planting and care, it can add a beautiful, natural focal point to your landscape.