Taxus Standishii

Taxus Standishii, also known as the ‘Golden Irish Yew’ and holder of the prestigious RHS Award of Garden Merit, is a slow-growing coniferous tree native to Japan. It is a member of the Taxaceae family and is closely related to other popular garden plants, such as the English Yew and the Japanese Yew.

The tree typically grows up to 1.5 metres tall and has a narrow, columnar habit with a dense, pyramidal crown. The bark is brown and scaly, and the branches are stiff and slightly drooping. The needles are dark green, glossy, and measure around 1-2.5cm in length. They grow in a spiral pattern around the stem and have a slightly flattened shape with a pointed tip.

This is a hardy tree that is tolerant of a wide range of soils and growing conditions. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils and partial to full shade. It can also tolerate exposure to full sun but may require more frequent watering in hot and dry conditions. The tree is also highly tolerant of pruning and shaping, making it a popular choice for topiary and formal gardens.

In summary, Taxus Standishii is a slow-growing coniferous tree native to Japan with a narrow, columnar habit and dark green needles. It is hardy and tolerant of a wide range of soils and growing conditions and is often used in topiary and formal gardens.

How to care for your Taxus Standishii

1. Location: Prefers partial to full shade and well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It can tolerate exposure to full sun, but it may require more frequent watering in hot and dry conditions.
2. Watering: Water the tree regularly during the first few years of growth to establish a strong root system. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, but it still benefits from occasional deep watering during extended dry spells.
3. Fertilizer: Does not require frequent fertilisation, but it can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in early Spring.
4. Pruning: Is highly tolerant of pruning and shaping, making it a popular choice for topiary and formal gardens. Prune the tree in late Winter or early Spring before new growth appears to maintain its shape and size. Remove any dead or diseased wood, and trim back any unwanted growth.
5. Mulching: Mulching around the base of the tree can help conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds. Use a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded leaves.

Overall, Taxus Standishii is a relatively low-maintenance tree that is easy to care for with a little attention to its basic needs. By providing it with the right growing conditions and regular care, you can enjoy the beauty of its dark green foliage and narrow, columnar habit for many years to come.