Hicks Yew

Planting Hicks Yew (Taxus × media 'Hicksii')

Choose a location with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Avoid areas where water stands after rain, as yews do not tolerate soggy roots.

• Dig a hole 2–3 times wider than the root ball but no deeper than the root ball's height.
• Place the plant so the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
• Backfill with the native soil, gently firming it to remove air pockets. Do not add large amounts of compost or fertilizer to the planting hole.
• Water deeply immediately after planting to thoroughly soak the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Apply 2–3 inches of mulch around the base, keeping it 2–3 inches away from the trunk.

Watering & Care

• For the first 2 weeks: Water deeply every 2–3 days if there is no significant rainfall.
• Weeks 3–12: Water once or twice per week, keeping the soil evenly moist but not saturated.
• After establishment (about 1 year): Water during extended dry periods.
• Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release shrub fertilizer if growth is weak.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape. Hicks yew responds well to shearing or selective pruning.

Pollination & Harvest

Hicks yew does not require pollination for landscape use. Female plants may produce small red berries if a male yew is nearby. Do not eat any part of the plant except the fleshy red berry covering—the seeds and all other plant parts are highly toxic to people and pets.

Container Planting

Use a large container with drainage holes and a high-quality potting mix. Water whenever the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry, and protect the container from extreme winter temperature swings if you live in a cold climate.

Hicks Yew FAQs

1. How fast does Hicks Yew grow?

Hicks Yew has a moderate growth rate, typically adding about 8 to 12 inches of new growth each year. With proper care, it develops into a dense, upright evergreen that provides an attractive privacy screen without growing too wide.

2. Does Hicks Yew need to be pruned?

Hicks Yew naturally maintains a narrow, columnar shape, so pruning is optional. It responds very well to trimming if you prefer a formal hedge or want to maintain a specific size, making it one of the best evergreens for neatly shaped landscapes.

3. Where is the best place to plant Hicks Yew?

Hicks Yew grows best in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It's an excellent choice for privacy hedges, foundation plantings, property lines, and framing entryways. Its narrow habit also makes it ideal for landscapes where space is limited.

4. Can Hicks Yew be grown in containers?

Yes. Young Hicks Yews can be grown in large containers for patios, porches, or entryways. Container-grown plants require regular watering and may eventually need to be transplanted into the landscape as they mature to reach their full size and lifespan.

5. Does Hicks Yew produce berries or require pollination?

Hicks Yew is a female selection and can produce small, bright red berry-like arils if a compatible male yew is nearby for pollination. The berries add seasonal interest and can attract birds, although the seeds and foliage are considered toxic if ingested by people or pets. Hicks Yew is grown primarily for its evergreen foliage and landscape value rather than for harvesting.