Cephalotaxus oliveri aka Oliver's Plum Yew

Cephalotaxus oliveri is an evergreen conifer from southern China. It grows as a shrub or small tree. In the wild, it forms part of the woodland understorey. It occurs in both conifer woods and broad-leaved forests. These habitats lie at heights of 300–1,800 metres. Its dense foliage suits shaded parts of a garden.

Garden plants reach about 8–13 feet [2.5–4 metres] tall. They can reach the same width at maturity. The RHS gives a maturity span of 20–50 years. Stiff branches spread out to form a bushy crown. The soft needles have a dull, dark green surface. Each leaf can reach about 1.2 inches [3 centimetres] long. They sit close together in two flat rows along branchlets. This neat layout gives the shoots a comb-like look. The leaves stay on the plant through winter.

Green seed cones appear singly from summer into autumn. Each has an egg shape and reaches about 1.2 inches [3 centimetres] long. These cones add a different shape among the flat leaf sprays. The supplied species evidence gives no clear flowering period. It also gives no firm account of flower form.

Plant it in part shade for the best growing conditions. It prefers moist soil that lets excess water drain away. It accepts chalk, clay, loam and sand. Acid, neutral and alkaline soils can all suit it. Full sun is an option in cool, moist climates. Give it shelter from cold winds that dry the leaves. The RHS rates its UK hardiness as H4. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 7–10.

Use it in woodland gardens or along shaded garden edges. It also suits a hedge where light is limited. Plants For A Future reports that it tolerates pruning well. Yet the RHS says routine pruning is not needed. The RHS reports few problems with pests or disease. Seed, softwood cuttings and semi-hardwood cuttings offer ways to raise new plants. Plants For A Future lists no known medicinal use or hazards. Its food entry needs care: species-specific details remain lacking. It lists fruit and seed but draws on related plants. That does not establish this species as safe to eat.