How to identify Pacific yew (Taxus brevifolia)

How to identify Pacific yew (Taxus brevifolia)

Pacific yew, also known as America Yew, Western yew

Pacific yew is a resilient evergreen displaying flat, dark green needles that have a short, broad appearance. Its stature is quite variable, typically ranging from 6 to 12 feet in height (1.8 to 3.6 meters) and spreading about 3 to 6 feet wide (0.9 to 1.8 meters) when mature. The plant's leaves radiate around the stem, providing a lush, dense coverage. The bark is rough and scaly, and the plant often produces conspicuous, red berry-like structures that contain a single, hard seed.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Pacific yew

Flat, dark green needles in a short, broad shape.

Distinctive red arils enveloping firm brown seeds.

Yellow-green upper leaf side with a lighter underside.

Bark with thin, scale-like layers in vibrant colors.

Male flowers releasing fine yellow pollen cones.

Detailed Traits of Pacific yew

Leaf Features

The leaves of pacific yew are flat needles arranged in a spiral pattern around the stem. They measure approximately 0.5 to 1.5 inches (1.3 to 3.8 cm) in length. The upper side presents a yellow-green hue, while the underside is a lighter green. Each needle ends in a sharp, slender point. The texture is smooth and the veins are not prominently visible. These features are key for identifying this plant.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

The flowers of pacific yew are distinct in appearance. Male flowers are small, yellowish cones approximately 0.2 to 0.4 inches (5 to 10 mm) long, releasing fine pollen. Female flowers are not true flowers but solitary seeds partially enveloped by fleshy, red arils around 0.3 inches (8 mm) in diameter. They lack petals and have no noticeable scent. The flowering period generally occurs in late winter to early spring.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of pacific yew is distinguished by a single, hard, brown seed enveloped at the base by a soft, bright red aril. The aril is fleshy and cup-shaped, creating a striking contrast against the seed. This delicate structure measures approximately 0.3 to 0.5 inches (7 to 12 mm) in diameter. The aril offers a succulent texture, while the seed inside remains firm. These fruits are commonly found clustered at the leaf axils. Their distinctive appearance, with the lustrous red aril, provides an attractive visual interest, particularly evident in the late summer to fall when they mature.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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