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Description
Taxus Canadensis, commonly known as Canada Yew, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Taxaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern part of Canada and the United States. The plant has a unique growth habit, with branches that grow horizontally and then curve upwards at their tips. Its foliage is dark green and glossy, with a needle-like shape that is about 2 centimeters long. The bark of the plant is thin and reddish-brown in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Taxaceae |
| Genus | Taxus |
Appearance
The Canada Yew is a small, slow-growing evergreen shrub that can reach a height of 1 to 5 meters. Its branches grow horizontally and then curve upwards at their tips, giving the plant a unique growth habit. The foliage of the plant is dark green and glossy, with a needle-like shape that is about 2 centimeters long. The leaves are arranged spirally along the branches. The bark of the plant is thin and reddish-brown in color. The Canada Yew produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by red berry-like fruits that are about 1 centimeter in diameter.
Care Guide
Canada Yew is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips to care for your Canada Yew:- Water: The Canada Yew prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate waterlogged conditions. Water your plant deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Canada Yew does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.- Soil: The Canada Yew prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. If your soil is not well-drained, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.- Sunlight: Canada Yew prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sun exposure, but too much sun can cause the foliage to turn yellow.- Hardiness Zones: Canada Yew is cold-hardy and can survive in USDA hardiness zones 2 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canada Yew is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some common problems, such as:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can damage the foliage of the plant, causing it to turn yellow or brown. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control scale insects.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur in poorly-drained soil, causing the roots of the plant to rot. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
The Canada Yew is native to North America and can be found in the eastern part of Canada and the United States. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, swamps, and rocky areas. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade.
Question and Answer
1. Q: Is Canada Yew toxic to humans?A: Yes, all parts of the Canada Yew plant are toxic to humans if ingested.2. Q: Can Canada Yew be used for hedging?A: Yes, Canada Yew can be used for hedging as it responds well to pruning.3. Q: Does Canada Yew produce flowers?A: Yes, Canada Yew produces small, inconspicuous flowers.4. Q: Is Canada Yew a slow-growing plant?A: Yes, Canada Yew is a slow-growing plant that can take several years to reach its full height.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Canada Yew:- Taxus baccata (English Yew)- Taxus cuspidata (Japanese Yew)- Taxus media (Hybrid Yew)- Taxus floridana (Florida Yew)
References
– “Taxus canadensis”. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved 23 May 2021.- “Canada yew”. Colorado State University Extension. Retrieved 23 May 2021.- “Canada yew”. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved 23 May 2021.
