The evergreen Yew or Taxus Baccata is one of Britain’s most ancient and enduring native trees. Known for its deep green foliage and remarkable longevity, it has been part of churchyards, gardens and landscapes across the country for centuries.
Yew through the seasons
Unlike many trees, Yew remains green throughout the year. You can expect:
- Dense, dark green foliage
- Small yellow flowers in spring
- Bright red fruits forming in late summer and autumn
- A strong, steady year-round presence
This constant greenery gives Yew a calm and steady character in the landscape.
Size and growth
Yew grows slowly but steadily into a long-lived tree.
- Can reach 10-20m in height and spread widely as it matures
- Grows fairly slowly compared to other trees
A medium-sized tree, Yews are well suited spaces of varying size and are often pruned to keep their shape. Yews regularly live for hundreds of years. Living examples, such as the Fortingall Yew in Perthshire, are thousands of years old.
Growing conditions
- Best in full sun or partial shade
- Prefers well-drained soil
- Grows well in sheltered or exposed sites
- Tolerant of most soil types
- Hardy and very long-lived once established
Planting in a container
Our Yew saplings can grow well in a large container for several years. This makes them a good choice for families who may wish to begin their memorial tree in a pot. When the time is right, transferring to the ground will allow the tree to reach its full potential.
Is Yew right for you?
With its evergreen foliage and extraordinary lifespan, Yew offers a sense of permanence that few other trees can match. Indeed, Yew trees have long been planted in churchyards and places of remembrance across Britain.
For families seeking a memorial tree that represents continuity, endurance and lasting remembrance, a Yew tree can be a deeply meaningful choice.
Please note that Yew foliage and seeds are toxic to pets and humans if eaten.