Sourcing a 15-ft Yew (Taxus): Plant Locators, Cost & Alternatives

A 15×8 ft yew is a specimen tree—rare, heavy, expensive. Here's how to find one (or a smart substitute).

Why It's Hard

• Latin matters: Taxus baccata, T. cuspidata, T. × media—14+ cultivars. "Yew" is useless.
• Size: 15 ft = 20–30 yr growth. Root ball 60–72" = 4,000+ lbs.
• Logistics: Crane, flatbed, traffic permits.

Commercial Plant Locators

• PNW: Blackeyed Susans Press, HortWorld, PlantFinder West
• FL/South: FindPlants.com, PlantFinder.com
• Search: "Plant locator [your state]" + "Taxus"

Cost Reality

• Tree: $1,500–$4,000+
• Transport: $500–$2,000+
• Install (crane): $1,000–$3,000
• Total: $3,000–$9,000+ per tree.

Smart Alternatives (Available, Affordable, Similar Look)

Pro Tip

Buy 6–8 ft specimens; they establish faster, cost 1/10th, and reach 15 ft in 5–7 years.

Flexibility saves thousands. The landscape looks the same in 5 years.