Easily pruned to almost any desired height. Recommended if you are willing to invest some time each spring pruning it. Attacked by pine needle scale and European pine sawfly larvae. 10 x 15 Hardy Zone 4. Quite variable in growth rate and size.
Many cultivars are available.
Consult your local Iowa certified nurseryman as to cultivars of spreading Japanese yew for your particular use. Hickii yew medium 12 x 8 Hardy Zone 4. A very columnar cultivar with male and female plants. Only female plants bear the colorful, bright red fruits. Tolerates shade very well, can be easily pruned to 6 feet tall by 5 feet broad.