Canada Yew (Taxus canadensis)

*Preorder only*

Expected Height at Pickup: .5-1', 3 gal

A.k.a. American yew and ground-hemlock. A sprawling evergreen shrub with bright red “berries”! Occurs in mature northern woodlands in the wild, so prefers shade and moist, rich soils. Easily propagated by cuttings. Fruit are notably poisonous to humans (and presumably dogs), but are enjoyed by a number of woodland birds such as wood thrush and waxwings.

This species is vulnerable to over-browsing by deer, is intolerant of full sun and drought, and may be sensitive to hot summers. In central Indiana, NPU recommends full shade and protection from deer for this species.

Pollination: Self pollinating

Light: Part Sun/Shade, Shade

Soil Moisture: Wet Mesic

Soil Type: Loam, Sandy Loam

Height: 3’-6’

Width: 6’-8’

Bloom Color: -

Bloom Time: May

Fruit: Bright red “berries” containing a single seed mature in summer.

Fall Color: Evergreen

Root Type: Fibrous (?)   

Notable Wildlife Interactions: Woodland birds eat the seeds/fruit, including waxwings, wood thrush, ruffled grouse, and a few species of sparrow. Commonly browsed by mammals, especially deer. Vulnerable to over-browsing.

Notes: The iconic yew “berries” are actually modified cones! The plant produces bright red flesh in place of the scales of a cone to attract birds, who disperse the seeds. Wild populations are on the decline due to habitat loss, climate change, and over-browsing by deer. Small and southerly populations, like those in Indiana, are particularly vulnerable to local extirpation.