Chinese plum yew

Cephalotaxus sinensis, also known as the Chinese plum-yew or simply Cephalotaxus, is a species of coniferous tree native to China. It belongs to the family Cephalotaxaceae and is closely related to the yews (Taxus spp.).

The Chinese plum-yew is an evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 20 meters (66 feet) tall. It has dark green, glossy, needle-like leaves that are arranged in spirals along the stems.

The tree is dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are found on separate trees. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the female trees produce bright red, fleshy fruit that resemble plums.

Cephalotaxus sinensis is a slow-growing tree that prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade. It is tolerant of a range of soil types and can grow in acidic, neutral, or alkaline soils. The tree is often used in traditional Chinese medicine, and extracts from its leaves and bark have been found to have antitumor and antiviral properties.

In landscaping, Cephalotaxus sinensis is often used as an ornamental tree or shrub. It is a low-maintenance plant that is resistant to pests and diseases and can be pruned to maintain a desired size and shape. The tree is also commonly used in bonsai cultivation.