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Taxus brevifolia
Taxus brevifolia
Taxus brevifolia
Taxus brevifolia

Taxus brevifolia

TAXONOMY

FamilyTaxaceae
GenusTaxus
Zone6

ABOUT

Taxus brevifolia, commonly known as the Pacific yew, is a species of yew native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that can live for hundreds of years. The tree is known for its dense, dark green foliage and reddish-brown bark. It has a natural dormancy period during the winter months.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Pacific Yew
Taxus baccata subsp. brevifolia
Taxus baccata var. brevifolia
Taxus bourcieri
Taxus brevifolia subsp. polychaeta
Taxus brevifolia subsp. reptaneta
Taxus brevifolia var. polychaeta
Taxus brevifolia var. reptaneta
Taxus lindleyana
Taxus occidentalis

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
The Pacific yew prefers moderate temperatures and indirect bright light. It thrives in temperate climates with moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. It is important to provide good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
Taxus brevifolia prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer months to support its growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plant.
Repotting
Repot the Pacific yew every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its container. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage. Repotting is best done in the spring.
Propagation
Propagate Taxus brevifolia through semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings in a humid environment until they root.
Pruning
Prune the Pacific yew in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Light pruning can help maintain the tree's shape and encourage denser growth.
Toxicity
All parts of Taxus brevifolia are toxic if ingested, particularly the seeds and leaves. The plant contains toxic alkaloids that can be harmful to pets and humans. Symptoms of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and in severe cases, cardiac issues.
Additional
The Pacific yew is known for its medicinal properties, particularly the bark, which contains the compound paclitaxel, used in cancer treatment. However, harvesting the bark should be done sustainably to avoid harming the tree population.
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