Anglo-Japanese yew vs Photinia 'Red Robin'

Anglo-Japanese yew and Photinia 'Red Robin' are often considered for the same spot in the garden (hedge, screening, specimen). 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.

• Photinia 'Red Robin' grows larger: 3 m × 2 m after ten years, against 2.5 m × 1.5 m for Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Photinia 'Red Robin' grows faster than Anglo-Japanese yew.

• Anglo-Japanese yew is hardier: down to -34 °C, against -18 °C for Photinia 'Red Robin'.

• Photinia 'Red Robin' also takes heavy clay, Anglo-Japanese yew needs a loose, free-draining soil.

• Anglo-Japanese yew needs less care than Photinia 'Red Robin'.

• Anglo-Japanese yew also grows in shade, Photinia 'Red Robin' does not.

Which one to choose?

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

Photinia 'Red Robin' is the better choice if small children, dogs or cats use the garden, you want quick results or the soil is heavy clay.