Overview
Taxus ×media Rehder, commonly known as the English yew or hybrid yew, is a cross between Taxus baccata and Taxus cuspidate. It is a popular evergreen shrub grown in gardens and parks for the beauty and practicality it brings.Appearance
The plant has a conical shape and can grow up to 20 meters in height. Its evergreen leaves are dark green, shiny, and arranged in two rows along the twigs with a length of 1 to 4 centimeters. The bark is red-brown, and the branches have a slightly drooping habit.Origin
Taxus ×media was first developed in a botanical garden in Slough, England in the early 1900s. It is a hybrid of two different species of the yew plant, Taxus baccata and Taxus cuspidata.Common Names
Taxus ×media is also known by many common names, including English yew, hybrid yew, Anglojap yew, and Spreading yew.Uses
The English yew is highly valued for its ornamental and practical uses. It is a popular ornamental tree used in gardens, as it is easy to shape and can blend in with other evergreen plants. Its dense foliage provides excellent coverage and privacy, and its bright red berries serve as a valuable food source for birds in the winter. Additionally, the bark, needles, and seed cones of the English yew have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, it is important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic and should not be ingested.Growth Conditions for Taxus ×media Rehder
The Taxus ×media Rehder plant requires specific growth conditions in order to thrive and reach its full potential. Here are the growth conditions needed:
Light Requirements
Taxus ×media Rehder grows best in partially shaded to full-shaded areas. The plant can tolerate full sunlight, but it should not be exposed to it for extended periods of time. Partial shade to full shade will promote the best growth and development for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is known to be hardy in zones 6-9, and can survive in a range of temperatures. However, it tends to prefer cooler areas with temperatures ranging from 50-75°F (10°C-24°C). Taxus ×media Rehder is fairly tolerant of both summer and winter temperatures, but extreme heat or cold can have adverse effects on the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil that has a pH level between 5.0-6.5. Taxus ×media Rehder also requires consistent moisture levels, but it should not be over-watered or exposed to standing water. The plant benefits from soil that is rich in organic matter and is well-aerated.
Cultivation methods
The Taxus ×media Rehder plant can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions, but fare best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. They can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. When planting, ensure that the plant's root ball is level with the soil surface and mulch to retain moisture.
Watering needs
Watering Taxus ×media Rehder plants regularly is essential to maintain healthy growth. They require moderate watering during the growing season, and it's advisable to wait for the soil to dry slightly before watering again. Too much water can lead to root rot, so avoid overwatering, particularly in poorly drained soils.
Fertilization
It's advisable to fertilize the Taxus ×media Rehder plant with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring after the new growth has emerged. Avoid fertilizing in summer and fall to prevent encouraging new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Pruning
Taxus ×media Rehder plants require minimal pruning. However, it's advisable to prune lightly to maintain its shape. Prune in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Avoid pruning heavily as this can reduce the number of female flowers that develop, leading to fewer seeds being produced.
Propagation of Taxus ×media Rehder
Taxus ×media Rehder, also known as the Anglojapanese yew, is a hybrid between Taxus baccata and Taxus cuspidata. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its evergreen foliage and tolerance to pruning. There are several methods of propagating Taxus ×media, including:
Seed Propagation
Taxus ×media can be propagated from seed, but the process can be slow and unpredictable. The seeds require a period of stratification, which can take up to three months, to break their dormancy. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. Germination can take several months, and the resulting plants may take several years to reach maturity.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation from cuttings is the most common and efficient method for Taxus ×media. Stem cuttings should be taken in early to mid-summer and treated with rooting hormone before being planted in a rooting medium. The cuttings should be placed under mist and kept in a humid environment until rooted. Once rooted, the cuttings can be potted and grown on until they reach planting size.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method for Taxus ×media. In this method, a low branch of the parent plant is bent down and covered with soil while still attached to the parent plant. Roots will form from the covered section while still attached, and once the new plant is established, it can be cut from the parent and transplanted.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is also possible with Taxus ×media, but it is not commonly done. The process involves taking a stem cutting from the desired cultivar and joining it with the rootstock of a closely related Taxus species. Grafted plants can be faster to produce than those from other propagation methods, but grafting is a skilled process and requires a high level of expertise.
Disease and Pest Management of Taxus ×media Rehder
Taxus ×media Rehder, or commonly known as the Anglojap yew, is a common ornamental plant in many gardens and landscapes. To keep this plant healthy and vibrant, it is essential to maintain its health and prevent any diseases or pests from taking hold. Let's take a look at some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, and suggest effective ways of managing them.
Common Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus, Phytophthora cinnamomi, that thrives in moist conditions. The first sign of infection is yellowing and wilting of the plant's needles. Over time, the needles may turn brown and die, and the plant may eventually fall over. To control this disease, ensure that the plant is not planted in an area with poor drainage, and avoid overwatering.
Anthracnose: This fungal disease affects new growth, causing it to wither and die. The fungus attacks the plant's needles, causing brown or black spots. To prevent anthracnose, remove any infected branches, and avoid overhead watering.
Cytospora Canker: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the trunk and branches of the plant. The first sign of infection is the presence of resin on the bark. Over time, the bark may crack and peel away, exposing the wood underneath. To control this disease, prune any infected branches, and avoid planting yews in areas with poor air circulation.
Common Pests
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant's needles, causing them to yellow and fall off. To control mites, spray the plant with a forceful stream of water, or use a miticide.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that resemble small bumps on the plant's needles. Heavy infestations can cause the needles to turn yellow and fall off. To control scale insects, prune any infected branches, and use a horticultural oil or insecticide.
Bagworms: Bagworms are caterpillars that spin a protective cocoon around themselves using the plant's needles. They feed on the needles, causing extensive damage to the plant. To control bagworms, remove any cocoons by hand, and use a pesticide if necessary.
By regularly monitoring the plant's health and taking measures to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests, Taxus ×media Rehder can continue to thrive and add beauty to any garden or landscape.
