Anglo-Japanese yew vs Oval-leaved privet

Anglo-Japanese yew and Oval-leaved privet 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 is evergreen, Oval-leaved privet is semi-evergreen.

• Oval-leaved privet grows larger: 3 m × 2 m after ten years, against 2.5 m × 1.5 m for Anglo-Japanese yew (an estimate: sources differ).

• Oval-leaved privet grows faster than Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Anglo-Japanese yew is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -23 °C for Oval-leaved privet.

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

• Anglo-Japanese yew needs less care than Oval-leaved privet.

Which one to choose?

Anglo-Japanese yew is the better choice if it must screen in winter too, space is tight, the garden is cold or a frost pocket or you have little time for care.

Oval-leaved privet is the better choice if small children, dogs or cats use the garden, you want quick results or the soil is heavy clay.