Taxus chinensis, commonly known as Chinese yew, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to forested areas, valleys, and mountain slopes of China, Myanmar, and Vietnam. It typically grows to a height of 10-15 meters with a similar spread, featuring a dense, conical form. The leaves are dark green, linear, and arranged spirally on the stem. The Chinese yew produces inconspicuous, yellowish flowers in the spring, followed by red, berry-like arils that are attractive to birds. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin layers.

The Chinese yew is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its attractive foliage and form, making it suitable for use as a specimen plant or in hedges and screening. It is also noted for its medicinal properties, as it is a source of compounds used in cancer treatment, such as Paclitaxel and Taxifolin. In cultivation, it requires well-drained soil, preferably acidic to neutral, and can tolerate full sun to part shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered and may suffer from pests like scale insects and mealybugs. Due to its slow growth rate, it is not commonly used in urban planting but is more suited to botanical gardens and conservation areas. Its rarity and medicinal value have led to overharvesting in the wild, which is why it is protected under Chinese and international law. Gardeners should ensure that any plants they acquire are from reputable, sustainable sources to avoid contributing to its decline in the wild.CC BY-SA 4.0