Yew

Yew is the common name for coniferous trees and shrubs in the genus Taxus, a group of evergreen plants in the yew family, Taxaceae.

Yew is the common name for coniferous trees and shrubs in the genus Taxus, a group of evergreen plants in the yew family, Taxaceae. They are known for their flat needle-like leaves, red berry-like arils on female plants, slow growth, long life, and high toxicity. Yews are widely used in horticulture and have historical significance for their durable wood.

Description

Yews are evergreen conifers with dark green, flat needles arranged in two rows on the twig. They do not produce a Flower; instead, female plants produce red, fleshy arils that surround the seed and give the plant its characteristic fruit-like appearance.

Distribution and species

The genus Taxus is found across much of the Northern Hemisphere. Sources describe roughly eight species, with Taxus baccata as the best-known and most widely recognized species in Europe.

Uses

Yews are commonly planted in gardens, parks, and churchyards, especially as hedges or clipped topiary. Their dense growth and tolerance of shade and pruning make them useful ornamental plants. In Canada, yews are widely cultivated in temperate regions for landscaping.

Toxicity and medicinal importance

Yews are highly poisonous; ingestion of leaves, bark, or seeds can cause severe poisoning. At the same time, compounds from yew foliage have been used in modern anti-cancer medicines.