Yunnan Plum Yew
Cephalotaxus lanceolatafam. Taxaceae
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Pl. 7F65 — Cephalotaxus lanceolata
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IOverview
Overview
Yunnan Plum Yew, scientifically known as Cephalotaxus lanceolata, is a deciduous conifer native to the mountainous regions of Assam, China South-Central, East Himalaya, and Myanmar. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to full shade, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It can grow up to 8 meters tall and is hardy from USDA zones 7-10. Known for its edible fruit and seeds, Yunnan Plum Yew is both ornamental and useful as a food source in its native range. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to tolerate partial sun and shade, contributing to its versatility in different landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Yunnan Plum Yew?
Yunnan Plum Yew, scientifically known as Cephalotaxus lanceolata, is a deciduous conifer native to the mountainous regions of Assam, China South-Central, East Himalaya, and Myanmar.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Yunnan Plum Yew thrives in partial sun to full shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 7-10, making it suitable for temperate regions. The plant can reach a height of 8 meters and produces edible fruit and seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Yunnan Plum Yew for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Yunnan Plum Yew to gain experience in caring for conifers.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Yunnan Plum Yew plant, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil drains well; mix in compost if needed. For containers, use a pot with drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants from a nursery into your garden or a large container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid direct sunlight for the first few days.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially in summer. Provide light shade if full sun is too harsh.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune lightly to shape the plant and remove any dead branches as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough shade, and neglecting winter protection.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The Yunnan Plum Yew's fruit and seeds are edible. While not commonly consumed, the fruit can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Seeds may also be incorporated into dishes, though specific methods of preparation are not widely documented.
Other uses:Hedgerow
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia3 regions
native (3)ChinaIndiaMyanmar
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
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