Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fastigiata'

Fastigiate Japanese Plum Yew

A narrow, upright evergreen conifer with soft, dark green, needle-like foliage arranged densely along ascending branches. ‘Fastigiata’ is valued for its strong vertical form, shade tolerance, and deer resistance, providing year-round structure where many conifers struggle. The foliage has a refined, almost fern-like texture and remains attractive through winter.

Size: 4–6 ft wide × 8–12 ft tall

Zones: 6a–9b
Light: Full shade to partial shade; tolerates morning sun
Soil: Moist, well-drained soils; adaptable to clay if drainage is adequate
Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture, especially when establishing

Suitable Conditions:



Climate: Performs best in mild to moderate climates; tolerant of heat and humidity



Exposure: Excellent choice for shaded or north-facing sites



Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral



Drainage: Important; avoid waterlogged soils



Spacing: Allow room for upright growth when used as screens or accents



Notes:



Shape: Strongly upright to columnar



Highly deer resistant



One of the best evergreens for shade



Ideal for screens, vertical accents, foundations, and woodland gardens



Slow to moderate growth; minimal pruning required

Plant type

Evergreen Shrub

Height

8-12'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

6–8

Sunlight

Part shade to full shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Does not flower, Spring

Flower color

Blue

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Soil

Acidic, Loamy well-drained, Sandy well-drained

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Columnar, Upright

Bark

Exfoliating

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No