Contents
Description
Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is a cultivar of the common yew and is known for its narrow and columnar growth habit. It is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has dark green needle-like leaves that grow up to 1 inch long and are arranged spirally on the stem. The bark is reddish-brown and has a scaly texture. The female plants produce red berries that are poisonous.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Taxaceae |
| Genus | Taxus |
Appearance
Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is a narrow and columnar evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. It has dark green needle-like leaves that grow up to 1 inch long and are arranged spirally on the stem. The bark is reddish-brown and has a scaly texture. The female plants produce red berries that are poisonous. The tree has a dense and compact growth habit, making it an excellent choice for hedges and screens. It is also commonly used for topiary.
Care Guide
Water: Taxus Baccata Fastigiata prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as it can stimulate new growth that may not harden off before winter.
Soil: Taxus Baccata Fastigiata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
Sunlight: Taxus Baccata Fastigiata prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade but may grow more slowly.
Hardiness Zones: Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:
Scale insects: These sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Treat with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the tree to wilt and die. Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage.
Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease can cause the tree to decline rapidly. Remove infected trees and avoid planting in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is native to Europe and is commonly found in forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Taxus Baccata Fastigiata in a container?
A: Yes, Taxus Baccata Fastigiata can be grown in a container, but it may not reach its full size potential.
Q: Is Taxus Baccata Fastigiata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I prune Taxus Baccata Fastigiata into a different shape?
A: Yes, Taxus Baccata Fastigiata is commonly used for topiary and can be pruned into different shapes.
Q: Can I propagate Taxus Baccata Fastigiata from cuttings?
A: Yes, Taxus Baccata Fastigiata can be propagated from cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Taxus Baccata
- Taxus Cuspidata
- Taxus Media
- Taxus Chinensis
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2011). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- RHS. (n.d.). Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’ (Yew ‘Fastigiata’). Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20220/Taxus-baccata-Fastigiata/Details
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c405
