Japanese plum-yew is an evergreen, needled shrub or small tree in the yew family (Taxaceae). The cultivar 'Prostrata' has a low growing spreading mounding habit. Its name is derived from the Greek words kephale and taxus meaning "head" and "yew" respectively, in reference to the hard, round seeds. The specific epithet harringtonia was given in recognition of the Earl of Harrington who became an early adopter and enthusiast of the species in the early 19th century. This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil but tolerates dry, sandy, or clay soil. Plant it in full sun if you have cool summers; otherwise, it needs partial shade and tolerates shade better than most other needled evergreens. Ideal for the southeastern United States, as it tolerates both the summer heat and humidity unlike other yews. Once established this plant is drought-tolerant and deer resistant. 'Prostrata' grows very slowly to 2 to 6 feet tall and wide. 'Prostrata' works well as a specimen plant, used along a foundation, as a low hedge, planted under the canopy of trees, or mass planted along a border. Plant it in a woodland setting or in a shade or winter garden. Its fragrant glossy needles provide year-round interest and makes an interesting change in the landscape from the typical junipers. Quick ID Hints: Gymnosperm, linear leaves Two white, glaucous bands on underside Juvenile growth has leaves spirally arranged Adult growth has a V-shaped leaf pattern on branch Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No significant problems. More information on Cephalotaxus harringtonia .
Curated pairwise relationships between this plant and others in the library — who feeds
whom, who competes, who confuses the pests. Green reads as a good pairing, red as one to avoid.
No curated interactions recorded for this species yet.
Also noted by NC State
Related species the NC State Plant Toolbox flags for this plant — look-alikes to tell
apart, and plants that play a similar role in a planting. Ones we carry in the library are linked.
Often confused withCephalotaxus harringtonia 'Duke Gardens'
All plants in this botanical group are quite poisonous if ingested but are not dangerous to handle. Nervousness, trembling, slow pulse, pupil dilation, difficult breathing, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, convulsions; seizures, sudden death from acute heart failure if eaten in quantity.
Toxic principle
Alkaloid taxine, Volatile oil
Contact dermatitis
No
Toxicity summary
Medium severity poison; parts: Bark; Leaves; Seeds