Traditionally, yew was planted in churchyards to prevent livestock having access to the poisonous seeds of the berries, while at the same encouraging the growth of a timber that was prized for making longbows, so effective in the Middle Ages. Taxus baccata is a recipient of the RHS AGM (Award of Garden Merit), for all round excellence.

Flowers: Inconspicuous spring flowers are followed later on the female plant by fleshy red fruit. Most parts, especially the seeds, are highly toxic by ingestion

• Moist, well drained soil
• All aspects
• Full sun or partial shade or full shade

• Clip in early to late summer to retain shape. Avoid scorching by not clipping in midday sunshine. (We recommend Sentei Topiary Clippers.)
• Foliage is toxic if ingested. May cause skin irritation