H.M. Eddie Yew (Taxus x media 'H.M. Eddie') is an excellent, columnar, evergreen shrub for medium-tall hedges and privacy screens. It grows slowly, usually 4 to 6 inches a year. After 10 years, this columnar yew usually reaches 6 ft tall and 2 ft wide. Typically matures to a height of 12 feet with a spread of 3 feet, but can reach heights of 15-20 ft in about 25 years. The long, upright branches naturally form a narrow, columnar habit that works well in narrow spaces. H.M. Eddie Upright provides wonderful winter interest with its glossy green, short needled foliage. It can live to be 60 years old. Taxus x media is a conifer created by the hybridization of English yew (Taxus baccata) and Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata). It is also commonly called Anglojap Yew or Anglo-Japanese Yew. H.M. Eddie Yew grows well in full sun, and is unusual in that it is also an excellent evergreen for shady areas. Requires good drainage, and will not tolerate standing water. Hardy to USDA Zone 4a, but protect from harsh, drying winds. Pruning is best done in early spring before new growth appears. A low maintenance evergreen, it takes shaping well. Drought and pollution tolerant, but broadly browsed by deer. Parts of it are known to be toxic to animals and humans, so take care where you plant it.
