Taxus media 'Hilli'

• Attracts: Birds may be drawn to the fleshy red arils (berry-like fruit) produced by female plants.
• Wildlife Resistant: Resistant to deer and rabbits due to the toxic nature of the foliage, making it a reliable choice for areas with wildlife pressure.

• Foliage Season: Evergreen (year-round foliage).
• Flowering Season: Spring (inconspicuous flowers).
• Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-7

• Foundation plantings
• Low hedges and borders
• Groundcover in shaded areas
• Woodland gardens
• Erosion control on slopes

• Color: Dark green.
• Form: Soft, needle-like leaves that are flat and arranged in a dense, spiral pattern along the stems.
• Winter Interest: The evergreen foliage provides consistent greenery throughout the year, adding structure to the winter landscape.

• Color: Inconspicuous flowers; not visually prominent.
• Form: Small, yellow-green flowers appear in spring, primarily serving as a precursor to fruit development on female plants.
• Bloom Time: Early spring (March to April).
• Fragrance: Not fragrant.

• Planting Time: Best planted in spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil but can adapt to a variety of soil types, including clay and sandy soils.
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as in the nursery container, ensuring the root ball is level with the soil surface.
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for full growth and proper air circulation.

• Timing: Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Light pruning can be done throughout the growing season to maintain shape.
• Method: Use clean shears to remove dead, damaged, or overly long branches. 'Hilli' responds well to pruning, allowing for shaping and maintenance of desired size.

• Watering Frequency: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots. Once established, 'Hilli' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering during dry spells.
• Soil Moisture: Prefers evenly moist soil but can tolerate dry conditions once established. Avoid waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.

Thrives in partial to full shade. Can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefers some shade to prevent leaf scorch in hotter regions.

🌿 Foliage Harvesting:

Purpose: The dense, dark green foliage is widely used for holiday arrangements, wreaths, and evergreen centerpieces.

Best Time to Harvest:

• Late fall to early winter, when foliage is firm and rich in color.
  

How to Harvest:

Use clean, sharp pruners to cut healthy, green branch tips.

Take only outer growth, avoiding cuts into old wood, which may not regrow.

• Storage:
  
• Keep cut foliage cool and shaded.
  

• Mist lightly to maintain freshness, especially if used indoors.
  
  🍇 Berry (Aril) Harvesting:

Purpose: Mostly ornamental; the red arils can be used in natural arrangements but must be handled with caution.

When to Harvest:

• In late summer to early fall, when red arils are fully ripened.
  

How to Harvest:

Gently pluck arils by hand or clip with snips. Avoid damaging the inner seed.

• Important Note:
  
• Do not ingest, as the seed inside the red aril is highly toxic.
  
• Always wear gloves and wash hands thoroughly after handling.
  
  

• Fertilization Time: Fertilize in early spring before new growth appears.
• Fertilizer Type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost to promote healthy growth and lush foliage.

• Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the crown to prevent rot.
• Drought Tolerance: Once established, 'Hilli' is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance landscapes.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally pest-free and resistant to common diseases. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues, especially in humid climates.

• Pollination Type: Taxus plants are dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. Wind-pollinated, female plants produce small red arils if pollinated.
• Fruit Production: Female plants may produce small, red, berry-like arils in the fall if pollinated, providing visual interest and food for birds.

• Hosta
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• Rhododendron
• Heuchera