Hicksii Yew

The Hicksii Yew (Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’) is a small- to medium-sized evergreen conifer tree. Although it is not as well-known as its fellow cultivar, the Irish Yew (Taxus baccata ‘Fastigiata’), it is certainly another great option to use as a hedge or screen. This tree has long branches which grow in an upright and dense habit and are covered in glossy dark green needles that remain full throughout the whole year. The female trees are accompanied by the Yew tree’s signature red berry-like cones that contrast beautifully with the dark foliage, especially in the bleaker winter landscape.  

The Hicksii Yew was selected in 1900 by Henry Hicks as a seedling of the Dwarf Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata ‘Nana’). It was eventually introduced into the nursery trade by Hicks Nurseries in Westbury, New York. It is a hybrid cultivar of an English Yew (Taxus baccata) and Japanese Yew (Taxus cuspidata). This tree does wonders when planted in groups as a hedge or privacy screen with its dense foliage and branching pattern. It can handle heavy shearing and is best trimmed in late winter when still dormant. Once established, it is quite resilient and can handle both heavy sun, heavy shade, and most soil types as long as they are well-draining.