TAXUS X MEDIA WARDII / WARD'S YEW

TAXUS X MEDIA ‘WARDII’ / WARD’S YEW

A Hardy, Compact Evergreen for Year-Round Appeal
Taxus x media ‘Wardii,’ commonly known as Ward’s Yew, is a compact, slow-growing evergreen that combines the best qualities of the yew species. With its dense, dark green foliage and adaptable nature, this shrub makes an excellent choice for hedges, foundation plantings, or as a low-maintenance accent in both formal and informal gardens. Its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and its resilience in shaded areas make it an ideal option for gardeners looking for a versatile, hardy evergreen.

Why Choose Ward’s Yew?

Comparison: Ward’s Yew stands out for its low, compact form and dark green, fine-textured foliage. Unlike larger, upright yew varieties, it maintains a dense, rounded shape, making it ideal for smaller spaces or as part of a foundation planting. Its resilience to pruning and adaptability to different conditions make it a versatile and easy-to-care-for choice.

Companions: Pairs beautifully with other evergreens like Boxwood, Holly, or Juniper, as well as flowering shrubs such as Azaleas or Hydrangeas. Its dense foliage also makes it an excellent choice for low hedges, borders, or as a backdrop in mixed plantings.

Key Features:

• Compact, Rounded Form: Grows in a dense, rounded shape, making it perfect for small gardens, foundation plantings, or low hedges.
• Dark Green Foliage: Features lush, dark green needles that retain their color throughout the year, providing consistent visual interest in all seasons.
• Shade Tolerant: Thrives in both full sun and partial shade, making it versatile and ideal for shaded garden spots where many other evergreens may struggle.
• Hardy & Resilient: Tolerates a wide range of soil types and is known for its adaptability, making it suitable for USDA zones 5–7.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, Ward’s Yew requires minimal care, making it a great low-maintenance addition to any landscape.

Specifications:

• Mature Height: 0.9–1.2 m tall
• Mature Width: 1.2–1.5 m wide
• Growth Rate: Slow (5–10 cm per year)
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Hardiness: Zone 5–7

Ward’s Yew is an excellent choice for gardeners seeking a compact, low-maintenance evergreen with year-round appeal. Its dark green foliage, dense growth habit, and ability to thrive in various conditions make it ideal for creating privacy hedges, accenting borders, or adding texture to mixed plantings.