Cephalotaxus fortunei (Chinese Plum Yew)


Botanical Information

FamilyCephalotaxaceae
GenusCephalotaxus
Speciesfortunei
SynonymsFormerly listed in the Taxaceae family.
CategoryWoody
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginEastern and central China.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone7 - 9
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone6a - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3 - H6
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-18 - (-1)
Temperature (°F)0 - 30
Height3 - 5 m
Spread3 - 5 m
GrowthSlow

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionRobert Fortune (1812-1880), Scottish botanist and plant collector, introduced Cephalotaxus fortunei to Britain in 1848. The species name was applied after his death in his honour.
ID CharacteristicNeedled evergreen with foliage resembling that of yews. Fruits on the females look like very small plums. Can be either a tree or more commonly a large shrub with spreading branches that have a slight drooping habit..
LandscapeBest used as a hedge or massing shrub.
PropagationCuttings collected in autumn or spring from the semi-ripe, upward growing wood. Cold stratification outside only produces 33% germination, to reach a 50% germination you would have to plant out in autumn and leave until the following winter period. Many have attempted to germinate in 3 months with a mist system and applying rooting promoters but have found to allow for successful germination you should leave it for 1–2 years. Patience is a virtue when propagating.
CultivationTolerant to heat and shade. Prefers moist, well drained and sandy soils.
Notable SpecimensWestonbirt, The National Arboretum, Tetbury, Gloucestershire, England.
Leaf DescriptionLinear, pointed, with dark green needles up to 8 cm long. These yew-like needles extend horizontally from the branchlets. Needles have two silver-white bands on their underside.
Fruit DescriptionShowy fruit resembling a small plum.

Photographs