Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf Japanese yew
BeginnerTaxus cuspidata var. nana
A variety of Japanese yew from snowy mountains on the Sea of Japan side. Instead of a single upright trunk it branches from the base and spreads. Its broader leaves arranged spirally tell it from typical yew. Tough and fairly heat-tolerant.
About
Kyaraboku is a variety of Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata) native to high, snowy mountains on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu, from Mt. Mahiru in Akita to Mt. Daisen in Tottori, and also found on the Korean Peninsula. The pure stand on Mt. Daisen is a designated Special Natural Monument. It is an evergreen shrub 0.5–2 m tall whose trunks lean rather than stand upright, branching from the base and spreading sideways—an adaptation to heavy snow. It differs from typical Japanese yew in its slightly broader, thicker leaves set spirally all round the shoot, whereas yew leaves lie in two flat rows; intermediates are common, and some botanists regard kyaraboku as an ecotype of yew. It is dioecious, and female plants bear red arils in autumn. The red flesh is sweet but the seed inside is poisonous, so keep children and pets away. More heat-tolerant than typical yew and easy in cities, it is widely sold for gardens and bonsai, including the golden-leaved form 'Kinkyara'.
Lifespan of the Dwarf Japanese yew
The Dwarf Japanese yew lives Long-lived; old plants on Mt. Daisen are said to be about 600 years old.
Size of the Dwarf Japanese yew
The Dwarf Japanese yew grows to Spreading shrub 0.5–2 m tall (bonsai: mini to medium).
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (snowy mountains on the Sea of Japan side of Honshu), Korean Peninsula
Lifespan
Long-lived; old plants on Mt. Daisen are said to be about 600 years old
Size
Spreading shrub 0.5–2 m tall (bonsai: mini to medium)
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (April–May and September–October)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Likes sun but tolerates part shade. In summer, a bright, airy spot out of harsh sun
Watering
Dislikes drying out: 1–2 times daily in spring, 2–3 in summer, 1–2 in autumn, every 2–3 days in winter. Avoid waterlogging in summer
Temperature & overwintering
Very hardy (yew: USDA zone 4). In cold regions leaves bronze in winter but green up the next year; more heat-tolerant than typical yew
Soil & repotting
Not fussy—akadama alone or with sand for drainage. Repot mid-March to mid-April, about every 2 years for mature plants
Fertilizer
Organic fertilizer once or twice a month in April–May and September–October
Pruning & styling
Pinch soft new shoots mid-April to June, leaving a half to a third. Prune Mar–Apr and Oct–Nov, wire Oct–Mar, remove old leaves Oct–Nov
Pests & cautions
Few pests, though spider mites appear in dry spells. The seeds are poisonous. It is native—buy nursery-grown plants, not wild-dug ones
Dwarf Japanese yew FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Dwarf Japanese yew?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Dwarf Japanese yew?
The average lifespan of Dwarf Japanese yew is Long-lived; old plants on Mt. Daisen are said to be about 600 years old. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Dwarf Japanese yew get?
The mature size of Dwarf Japanese yew is Spreading shrub 0.5–2 m tall (bonsai: mini to medium). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Dwarf Japanese yew?
Dwarf Japanese yew: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (April–May and September–October). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Dwarf Japanese yew?
The price of Dwarf Japanese yew varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata), including its infraspecific taxa such as var. nana, is listed in CITES Appendix II. The listing covers international trade; domestic sale and transfer in Japan are not restricted. Artificially propagated hybrids and cultivars in pots, labelled 'artificially propagated', are exempt from the Convention. Check the requirements before sending plants abroad or bringing them in. Choose cultivated rather than wild-collected plants.
Sources: Species+: Taxus cuspidata (CITES Appendix II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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