Yews are versatile plants that can indeed grow in shade. While they are generally adaptable to different light conditions, it is important to note that the amount of shade they receive can affect their growth and appearance.
Yews are typically happy in part sun, meaning they receive a few hours of direct sunlight each day. However, they can also thrive in areas with partial shade, where they may receive dappled sunlight or sun for only part of the day. In fact, some yew varieties, particularly those with gold-leafed foliage, actually benefit from being planted in areas with part shade. The shade helps protect their delicate foliage from scorching and potential winter burn.
If you have a yew variety with gold leaves, it is especially important to provide some shade. Gold-leafed yews are more prone to sunburn and can lose their vibrant color if exposed to too much direct sunlight. By planting them in a partially shaded area, you can help maintain their golden hue and prevent any damage to the foliage.
On the other hand, if you have a standard green-leafed yew, they can tolerate full shade as well. However, it is worth noting that the more shade they receive, the more regularly you will need to prune them. Yews grown in full shade tend to have looser and floppier growth, which can make them look untidy. Regular pruning helps maintain their shape and prevents them from becoming leggy or sprawling.
In my own experience as a gardener, I have found that yews grown in part shade or part sun tend to have a more compact and dense growth habit. They also tend to have healthier foliage and require less pruning compared to those grown in full shade. However, with proper care and pruning, yews can still thrive in shady areas.
To summarize, yews are adaptable plants that can grow in shade. While they can tolerate full shade, they will require more regular pruning to prevent loose and floppy growth. Part shade is beneficial, especially for gold-leafed varieties, as it provides some protection from sunburn and winter burn. Ultimately, the amount of shade your yews receive will affect their growth and appearance, so it is important to consider their specific needs when choosing their planting location.
