PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Adaptable to full sun, partial sun, or full shade; prefers partial shade in hot, dry climates to prevent leaf scorch
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist but well-drained; drought-tolerant once established, avoid prolonged waterlogging
Temperature
Extremely cold-hardy; avoid prolonged temperatures above 25°C in dry, exposed conditions
Characteristics
- Leaf: Flat, dark green linear evergreen leaves arranged in two opposite rows on stems
- Fruit: Female plants produce fleshy bright red cup-shaped arils surrounding a single toxic seed
- Stem/Bark: Thin scaly brown bark; young stems are flexible and green
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during extended dry periods; ensure soil drains freely to prevent root rot
Fertilization
Apply diluted balanced slow-release fertilizer once every 2 months. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent excessive soft growth
Eggshell powder topdressing：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface and water in slowly to release calcium for strong root developmentPruning
- Prune in late winter to maintain desired shape; avoid heavy pruning of old wood as regrowth is slow
- Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim overgrown stems for hedging applications; prune lightly after flowering to avoid removing developing arils
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion of any plant part may cause tremors, seizures, respiratory distress, and death
Humans: All parts except the fleshy red aril contain taxine alkaloids; ingestion can cause fatal cardiac or respiratory failure
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes death and immortality in European folklore; historically used in funeral wreaths and churchyard plantings
Usage: Ornamental hedging; historically used for bow making due to flexible, durable wood
