Top 10 Yew Varieties for Easy Transplanting Success

Yews are popular evergreen shrubs and small trees known for their dense foliage and versatility in landscaping. When selecting yew varieties for planting, especially in areas where transplanting might be necessary, choosing those with a reputation for easy transplant success can save time and effort. Here are the top 10 yew varieties that are known for their robust transplanting capabilities.

1. Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’

This columnar yew is favored for its upright growth and adaptability. Its dense foliage makes it ideal for narrow spaces, and it generally transplants well due to its vigorous root system.

2. Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’

A hybrid yew that combines the best traits of its parents. It has a dense, pyramidal shape and is known for its resilience during transplanting, making it a popular choice for hedges and screens.

3. Taxus cuspidata ‘Capitata’

This Japanese yew variety is hardy and adaptable. Its compact growth habit and tolerance for transplanting make it suitable for a variety of landscape uses.

4. Taxus baccata ‘Repandens’

This spreading yew is appreciated for its low-growing, cascading form. It transplants easily and is often used as ground cover or in rock gardens.

5. Taxus x media ‘Densiformis’

A dense, broad-shouldered yew that adapts well to transplantation. Its compact form makes it ideal for low hedges or foundation plantings.

6. Taxus canadensis

American yew is native to North America and is known for its hardiness. It handles transplanting with ease and is often used in naturalized landscapes.

7. Taxus x media ‘Hillii’

This variety is valued for its dense foliage and tolerance for pruning. It is highly adaptable to transplanting, making it a reliable choice for various landscape applications.

8. Taxus x media ‘Wardii’

A compact hybrid yew that is easy to transplant and maintain. Its slow growth rate and dense foliage make it suitable for formal gardens and borders.

9. Taxus baccata ‘Green Tower’

This cultivar features a narrow, upright form. It adapts well to transplanting, making it a popular choice for vertical accents in landscape design.

10. Taxus cuspidata ‘Nana’

A dwarf yew variety that is easy to transplant due to its small size and hardy nature. It is often used in rock gardens, containers, or as a low hedge.