Taxon

Cephalotaxus harringtonia

 
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Cephalotaxus harringtonia - Japanese Plum Yew, Chinese Plum Yew, Harrington Plum Yew, Plum Fruit Yew, Cows-tail pine
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Common name: Japanese Plum Yew, Chinese Plum Yew, Harrington Plum Yew, Plum Fruit Yew, Cows-tail pine
Family: Taxaceae (Yew)
Synonym: Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Drupaceae', Cephalotaxus sinensis
Distribution: China to Korea, Central and S Japan, Taiwan
Habitat: Broad-leafed, coniferous, and mixed forests, in understory; 3-825ft (10-2700m)
Hardiness: -10 - 30 F
Life form: Evergreen tree
Growth requirements: Part-full shade, medium wet soil
Structure: Round
Average height: As shrub: 5-10' (1.5-3 meters) As tree: 20-30' (6-9.1 meters)
Dioecious: Yes
Foliage characteristics: Linear, spirally-arranged, yew-like, dark green leaves grow in v-shaped pattern. 1.5" (3.8 cm) long
Fruit characteristics: Fleshy, edible, and olive or plum-like. 1" (2.5 cm) long. September.
Bloom characteristics: Male flower is enclosed inside a bract.
Bloom Time: June
Description: The plum yew takes its common name from its yew-like foliage and small fruits reminiscent of plums. While not a true yew, it is a good yew-like option for the south, due to its better heat resistance. Its fruits are edible.
Links: Kew Science Plants of the World Online • Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder • NC State Extension

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