Cephalotaxus fortunei aka Fortune's Plum Yew

Taxonomy

Genus Cephalotaxus Family Taxaceae Order Pinales Class Pinopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Cephalotaxus fortunei, also known as the Chinese plum-yew or Fortune's yew plum, is a coniferous shrub or small tree in the Taxaceae family. Native to northern Burma and China, it has been cultivated in western gardens since 1848. This evergreen plant features dark green, glossy leaves that grow up to 9cm long and are arranged spirally on erect shoots. The branches are spreading and slightly drooping, with reddish-brown bark that may shred with age. Female plants bear fruits that are 2-3cm long, ripening from olive green to brown. As a houseplant, Chinese plum-yew is considered super rare and not difficult to grow. It thrives with regular watering and prefers long-lasting, direct light, ideally positioned less than 1 foot from a window. Well-draining soil is recommended, and there is usually no need for added fertilizers if the plant is repotted each time it doubles in size. Native to Eastern and Central China and Myanmar, Chinese plum-yew belongs to the Cephalotaxus genus.

Common names

Fortune's Plum Yew, Chinese Plum Yew, Fortune's Yew Plum

How to care for Fortune's Plum Yew

Difficulty

Fortune's Plum Yew is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Fortune's Plum Yew should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Fortune's Plum Yew loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Fortune's Plum Yew is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Fortune's Plum Yew’s native range is E. Asia - E. and C. China.

More info:
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More Species in Cephalotaxus Genus

Cephalotaxus harringtonii Harrington's Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus oliveri Oliver's Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus lanceolata Gongshan Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus harringtonia Harrington Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus fortunei Fortune's Plum Yew