How to prune cephalotaxus 'fastigiata'

Late spring, after new growth has flushed. Shorten new growth with hand pruners or hedge shears to maintain the desired columnar profile. The plant tolerates cutting into older wood and will regenerate from bare stems unlike many conifers.

Annually if shaping is desired; otherwise every few years. Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Fastigiata' (Japanese plum yew) is a slow-growing upright shrub that tolerates pruning well but rarely needs it. Its columnar form is natural. Trim to tighten shape or control size in late spring after new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged stems at any time.

Shorten new growth with hand pruners or hedge shears to maintain the desired columnar profile. The plant tolerates cutting into older wood and will regenerate from bare stems unlike many conifers.