Is Japanese Plum Yew edible?

Yes — Japanese Plum Yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia drupacea) is catalogued as edible in this database. Always confirm species ID before harvest and source from clean ground.

How should Japanese Plum Yew be stored?

Dried Japanese Plum Yew keeps 12–18 months in an airtight glass jar away from direct sunlight and moisture. Volatile-oil constituents degrade faster — buy in small quantities and use within 6 months of opening for peak potency. Refrigerate tinctures once opened.

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Japanese Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus harringtonia drupacea

Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →

edibleshrubsnative asiaedible fruittreeshade tolerantedible

Updated7 July 2026·Quick Q&A →

Cephalotaxus harringtonia drupacea (Japanese Plum Yew) — botanical photograph

Pl. 1BB5 — Cephalotaxus harringtonia drupacea

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Overview

Japanese Plum Yew (Cephalotaxus harringtonia drupacea) is a small evergreen tree or shrub native to parts of China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. This plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.4–7.3, making it adaptable but preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil types. Hardy from zones 6-9, the Japanese Plum Yew is known for its ornamental value and edible fruit. Its distinctive feature includes small, cone-like structures that resemble those of true yews, though it is not a true yew. The plant's light requirement is moderate to low, contributing to its suitability in various garden settings.

Quick answers

What is Japanese Plum Yew?

Full Q&A reference →

Growingconditions · propagation · uses

Cultivation

Japanese Plum Yew thrives in partial shade to full sun with a light requirement of about 7 out of 10. It prefers moist, well-draining soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) and has an optimal pH range of 5.4 to 7.3. Hardy from zones 6-9, this plant can grow up to 5 meters tall and is both a tree and shrub. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The fruit and seed are edible parts of the plant.

Light

7/10

Water

Moist

Soil

Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)

Hardiness

6-9

Habit

Tree, Shrub

Mature size

5.0 m tall

Soil pH

5.4–7.3

For first-time growers

How to grow Japanese Plum Yew for the first time

8steps

Start with a Japanese Plum Yew as an easy-to-grow shrub for your garden or container.

1
What you'll need
A healthy young Japanese Plum Yew plant, well-draining soil, and a container if planting in one.
2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil has a pH between 5.4-7.3, which can be tested with a kit. For containers, use a mix of light sandy, medium, and heavy clay soils.
4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young plant into its permanent spot or container, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade and regular watering during dry spells, especially in summer. Prune lightly to maintain shape.
7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain its size.
8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, using incorrect soil pH, not providing enough shade, and neglecting regular pruning.

Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitSeed

Edible uses: Oil

Other uses:Hedgerowoil

Contextrange · companions · related

VII

Distribution

7 native · 1 introduced

Distribution across2 continents· 7 native· 1 introduced

Europe1 region

introduced (1)Romania

Asia4 regions

native (4)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwan

Broader regions

native:Hainan

Specimen gallery

1 image

Explore further

Companion planting

Japanese Plum Yew companions →

Growing zone

USDA zone 6-9

XII

About this entry

Last updated: 7 July 2026
Citation: How to cite this entry · Submit a correction

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Japanese Plum Yew

Overview

What is Japanese Plum Yew?

Cultivation

How to grow Japanese Plum Yew for the first time

What you'll need

Best time to plant

Soil and container prep

Sowing or transplanting

First two weeks

Ongoing care

Harvest or pruning

Common mistakes