Cephalotaxus Plum Yew - 20cm Pot

Cephalotaxus, commonly known as Japanese Plum Yew, is a hardy evergreen shrub valued for its rich dark green foliage, upright growth habit and excellent adaptability to both sun and shade. Often chosen as an alternative to traditional yew varieties, this tough and versatile plant provides year-round structure while tolerating conditions that many formal evergreens struggle with, including heat, dry periods and shaded positions.

Fresh new growth emerges in soft light green tones, creating a striking contrast against the mature deep green needle-like foliage. The layered texture and upright branching give the plant a refined architectural appearance while still feeling natural in the landscape. Its evergreen foliage remains dense throughout the year, making it useful for screening, background planting and adding permanent structure to garden beds.

Japanese Plum Yew is particularly valued for its versatility in Australian gardens. It works well as a specimen shrub, informal hedge or mass planting where low maintenance evergreen structure is needed. Its ability to tolerate both shaded and sunnier positions makes it especially useful beneath established trees, along shaded boundaries and in difficult planting areas where other conifers may struggle. Slow steady growth and drought tolerance once established also make it a practical choice for long-term landscape planting.

Mature size: approximately 2m high × 1.5–2 metres wide

Care & Growing Tips
Plant Cephalotaxus in full sun, part shade or full shade. It performs particularly well in sheltered positions with protection from harsh drying winds.

Prefers well-drained soil enriched with organic matter but adapts to a range of soil conditions once established.

Water regularly during establishment. Mature plants are relatively drought tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.

Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser in spring to encourage healthy dense foliage growth.

Minimal pruning is required. Light shaping can be carried out if needed to maintain form or encourage denser growth.

Highly tolerant of heat, shade and frost once established, making it a reliable low maintenance evergreen for a wide range of Australian gardens.

Ideal for
– Evergreen hedging
– Shade garden planting
– Feature shrubs and focal points
– Mass planting and borders
– Low maintenance landscape design
– Woodland and structured garden planting