Japanese plum-yew, Cowtail pine, Harrington's cephalotaxus
Cephalotaxus harringtonia
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
This plant is primarily ornamental. Its dense, evergreen foliage makes it an excellent choice for privacy screens, hedges, or foundation plantings. Though some Cephalotaxus species have been investigated for anti-cancer properties, C. harringtonia is not widely used for medicinal purposes. Its fruit, while technically edible, is not particularly palatable and should be consumed with caution. It offers shelter and nesting sites for birds.
Permapeople description
Cephalotaxus harringtonia, also known as Japanese Plum Yew, is a coniferous shrub or small tree native to Japan, Korea, and northeastern China. It is valued for its shade tolerance and deer resistance, making it a popular choice for landscaping in woodland gardens.
Botanical description
Cephalotaxus harringtonia is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree in the yew family (Taxaceae). It typically reaches heights of 10-20 feet. The plant is characterized by its arching branches and dark green, needle-like leaves that are arranged in two rows along the stems. The leaves are linear, flattened, and have a pointed tip. It is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The male cones are small and catkin-like, while the female flowers are solitary and develop into fleshy, olive-like fruits that ripen to a purplish-brown color. The plant is shade-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Companion planting
Cephalotaxus harringtonia benefits from being planted near other shade-tolerant plants. Avoid planting it near plants that require full sun or very dry conditions. There are no specific known companion planting benefits, but its presence provides shelter for beneficial insects and birds.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through seeds, stem cuttings, or layering. Seed propagation requires stratification to break dormancy. Stem cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood in late summer or early autumn and rooted in a well-draining medium. Layering involves bending a low-lying branch to the ground and covering it with soil until roots develop.
History and traditions
Native to Japan, Korea and China. Cephalotaxus harringtonia has been cultivated in Japan for centuries, often found in temple gardens and private landscapes. It was introduced to the West as an ornamental plant in the 19th century. In traditional medicine in some Asian cultures, other Cephalotaxus species have been used, but C. harringtonia itself does not have a strong history of medicinal application.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs in spring. Seeds ripen in autumn. The best time for planting is in spring or fall. Pruning is generally done in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to maintain the desired shape.