Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Robusta Irish Yew 'Robusta

Irish Yew is believed to have developed from the native English yew (Taxus Baccata). The botanical name for Irish Yew is Taxus Baccata Fastigiata, due to its narrow upright growth habit.

The Robusta variety of Irish Yew, is a particularly narrow conical variety. It is a striking evergreen conifer with a dense, upright, columnar growth and rich, dark green foliage. This robust cultivar of the Irish Yew offers an elegant, architectural presence, making it a favoured choice for formal gardens, hedges, and landscape focal points. 

Irish Yew Robusta has a strong, vertical growth habit with densely packed branches that grow upward rather than spreading outward, creating a narrow, pillar-like silhouette. Its needle-like leaves are deep green, arranged spirally around the stems, and maintain their vibrant hue throughout the year. The foliage is soft to the touch, adding a lush texture to its striking form. Female plants may produce small, bright red, berry-like arils that contrast beautifully with the dark green needles, though this feature is secondary to its impressive structural form.

How Hardy is Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Robusta?
Irish Yew Robusta is UK hardy, tolerating a range of climates, from temperate to cooler regions. It is exceptionally resistant to cold, wind, and urban pollution, making it suitable for both rural and city environments. Its adaptability extends to coastal areas where it can withstand salt-laden air.

Height and Spread of Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Robusta
When fully mature, Robusta Irish Yew can reach heights of 4M with a narrow spread of maximum 1 to 1.5M. Its slow growth rate ensures that it retains its compact, upright form with minimal maintenance.

How To Use Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Robusta:
The Irish Yew Robusta is ideal for adding vertical interest to gardens and landscapes. It serves beautifully as a standalone specimen, creating a dramatic focal point, or can be planted in rows for formal avenues, hedges, or privacy screens. Its architectural form complements traditional, formal gardens as well as contemporary designs. This plant’s dark green foliage provides an excellent backdrop for flowering plants and seasonal colour displays. It is also well-suited for topiary work and container planting, where its elegant shape can be highlighted.

How To Care For Taxus Baccata Fastigiata Robusta:

• Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright locations but tolerates some shade, especially in warmer climates.
• Soil: Adaptable to a range of soil types, from sandy to clay, as long as the soil is well-drained. It prefers slightly acidic soil to neutral pH levels.
• Water: Requires regular watering during establishment. Once established, it is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional deep watering in prolonged dry spells.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed due to its naturally tidy form. Light trimming can be done in late winter or early spring to maintain shape or control size.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth.
• Pest and Disease: Generally pest-resistant but may be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent issues.

Taxus baccata Fastigiata Robusta is a low-maintenance, long-lived evergreen conifer that adds stately elegance and year-round structure to any landscape.