How Fast Do Hicks Yews Grow? A Complete Growth Guide

Hicks yew (Taxus x media ‘Hicksii’) is a popular evergreen shrub valued for its columnar shape and lush green foliage. With its narrow upright habit and dense needles it’s ideal for hedges, screens and foundation plantings. But how fast does this versatile yew grow?

In this complete guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Hicks yew growth rate and maturation timeline. Whether you’re planning a new landscape design or caring for existing shrubs, understanding the growth pattern is key to success.

Overview of Hicks Yew Growth Rate

Hicks yew is generally considered a slow-growing shrub, but its growth pace can vary based on several factors. Here’s a quick overview:

• In the first 10 years, growth is most rapid at around 1 foot per year on average.

• The growth rate slows down as the shrub matures. After establishment, expect around 4-8 inches of new growth per year.

• Mature height is typically 10-15 feet, occasionally reaching up to 20 feet.

• It takes roughly 20-50 years to reach full maturity.

So in a nutshell, Hicks yew is not a fast grower. But with its stately presence and evergreen foliage, a slow growth rate can be desirable for keeping it maintained as a structural shrub or hedge.

Next, we’ll look more closely at what impacts the growth rate and timeline to full maturity.

Factors Affecting Hicks Yew Growth Rate

Several key factors play a role in determining how quickly Hicks yew will grow:

Climate and Growing Conditions

• Warm climates and hospitable growing conditions will encourage faster growth.

• In ideal conditions, Hicks yew may push over 1 foot per year when young.

• Harsh winters, drought, or urban pollution can stunt the growth rate.

Sun Exposure

• Full sun to partial shade is ideal. Too much shade will slow growth.

• Morning sun with afternoon shade provides a good balance.

Soil Quality

• Rich, moist, well-draining soil provides the best growth results.

• Poor, dry, or compacted soil will limit the growth rate. Amend the soil if needed.

Available Space

• If planted too close together, competition for space will restrict growth.

• Allow adequate spacing for it to reach its natural shape and size.

Pruning and Shaping

• Frequent shearing or heavy pruning restricts height increase.

• Allow some new growth each year before pruning lightly to shape.

Growth Timeline for Hicks Yew

Now let’s look at what you can expect in terms of how tall Hicks yew will get at certain ages:

• Years 1-2: About 1-2 feet

• Years 3-5: Around 2-4 feet

• Years 6-10: Roughly 4-8 feet

• Year 10+: Growth rate slows down. Expect 4-8 inches per year.

• Maturity (20-50 years): Typically 10-15 feet tall. Can potentially reach 20 feet.

The spread is usually about one-half to two-thirds of the height. So a 10 foot tall specimen may spread 5-7 feet at the base.

Caring for Hicks Yew

To achieve the best possible growth rate, proper care and maintenance is key:

• Choose an appropriate spot with well-drained fertile soil. Morning sun is ideal.

• Water regularly when young and during droughts.

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

• Keep the area around the shrub free of weeds and grass.

• Prune lightly in late winter to shape as needed. Avoid over-pruning.

• Protect from harsh winter winds and salt spray if applicable.

With the right growing conditions and care, you can maximize the growth potential of your Hicks yew.

Faster Growing Alternatives

Since it is slow growing, Hicks yew is not a good choice if you’re looking for a fast-growing privacy hedge or screen.

Here are some faster-growing alternatives:

• Leyland Cypress – Grows 3+ feet per year. Provides quick privacy.

• Arborvitae – Many varieties reach 1-3 feet yearly. Low maintenance.

• Thuja Green Giant – Vigorous grower up to 3 feet annually. Dense privacy.

• Holly shrubs – Grow 1-2 feet per year typically. Broadleaf evergreen.

• Sky Pencil Holly – More compact at 1 foot per year but gets tall.

Designing With Hicks Yew

The slow, steady growth of Hicks yew makes it ideal for certain landscape uses:

• Long-lasting, stately hedges that maintain their shape once established. Prune lightly as needed.

• Striking stand-alone specimen shrubs. Allow to grow naturally into its upright columnar form.

• Durable foundation plantings and anchors for garden beds. Maintain size with judicious pruning.

• Low-maintenance screening shrubs. Space properly to allow for growth over time.

The dense foliage and lush green color make it well worth the wait. With proper care and spacing, Hicks yew is a classic shrub that develops character and distinction over time. Its slow and steady growth habit can be used to great effect in formal gardens and natural landscapes.

In Summary

• Hicks yew is a slow growing evergreen shrub, adding about 1 foot per year when young.

• Mature height is typically 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide.

• Give it full sun to partial shade and moist, fertile soil.

• Frequent pruning will restrict growth. Allow some new growth yearly.

• Alternatives like Leyland Cypress offer quicker growth.

• The slow growth makes it ideal for hedges and foundation plantings.

With its versatility and lush green presence, Hicks yew is a landscape standby. By understanding its growth pattern and providing proper care, you can keep it looking healthy and elegant as a focal point or hedge for years to come.