Anglo-Japanese yew vs Ebbing's silverberry

Anglo-Japanese yew and Ebbing's silverberry are often considered for the same spot in the garden (hedge, screening). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.

Key differences

• Anglo-Japanese yew is highly toxic to children, dogs and cats: even a small amount can be life-threatening. Do not plant it where small children, dogs or cats go. Apart from the flesh of the red aril, every part of the plant is highly poisonous, including needles, bark and seeds, even when dry.

• Ebbing's silverberry spreads wider: 2.5 m × 2.5 m after ten years, against 2.5 m × 1.5 m for Anglo-Japanese yew (an estimate: sources differ).

• Ebbing's silverberry grows faster than Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Anglo-Japanese yew is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -18 °C for Ebbing's silverberry.

• Ebbing's silverberry tolerates drought better than Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Anglo-Japanese yew needs less care than Ebbing's silverberry.

• Ebbing's silverberry is non-toxic to children, dogs and cats, Anglo-Japanese yew is not.

Which one to choose?

Anglo-Japanese yew is the better choice if the garden is cold or a frost pocket or you have little time for care.

Ebbing's silverberry is the better choice if small children, dogs or cats use the garden, you want quick results or you cannot water regularly.