Anglo-Japanese yew vs Japanese spindle

Anglo-Japanese yew and Japanese spindle 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.

• Anglo-Japanese yew grows larger: 2.5 m × 1.5 m after ten years, against 2 m × 1.5 m for Japanese spindle.

• Japanese spindle grows faster than Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Anglo-Japanese yew is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -18 °C for Japanese spindle.

• Japanese spindle also takes heavy clay, Anglo-Japanese yew needs a loose, free-draining soil.

• Anglo-Japanese yew needs less care than Japanese spindle.

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.

Japanese spindle is the better choice if small children, dogs or cats use the garden, you want quick results or the soil is heavy clay.