Euscaphis japonica
Euscaphis japonica
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Pl. BF15 — Euscaphis japonica
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IOverview
Overview
Euscaphis japonica, commonly known as the Japanese yew or Chinese yew, is a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, including regions such as Hainan, Taiwan, and Korea. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay. Known for its edible leaves, Euscaphis japonica is a versatile addition to gardens, offering ornamental value alongside its culinary uses. One distinctive feature of this plant is its ability to grow up to 3.5 meters in height, making it an attractive choice for landscaping and horticultural projects.
Quick answers
What is Euscaphis japonica?
Euscaphis japonica, commonly known as the Japanese yew or Chinese yew, is a deciduous shrub native to China and Japan, including regions such as Hainan, Taiwan, and Korea. This plant thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types—ranging from sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Euscaphis japonica thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions and can grow up to 3.5 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist as this plant requires regular watering. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. The leaves are edible, making them a useful addition to your garden both for their culinary value and ornamental appeal.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
3.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Euscaphis japonica for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Euscaphis japonica in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
A young plant or seeds, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Euscaphis japonica in spring after the last frost or fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and prepare containers at least 30 cm wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden or start seeds indoors in late winter for outdoor planting later.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight during this period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun to partial shade, and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Fertilize once a year in early spring with compost.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The leaves of Euscaphis japonica are edible and can be consumed raw or cooked. They are often prepared in stir-fries or soups, adding a mild flavor to dishes.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 9 native
Asia5 regions
native (5)ChinaJapanSouth KoreaTaiwanVietnam
Broader regions
native:Hainan, Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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