How to identify Japanese yew (Taxus cuspidata)
Japanese yew characteristically presents as a robust evergreen with a dense, bushy appearance. Its needle-like leaves are dark green, spirally arranged, and often come to a sharp point. These needles typically measure about 0.8 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 cm) in length. The bark of japanese yew is scaly and reddish-brown, providing a textured look to the tree's structure. It is a versatile plant, appearing in both tree and shrub forms, and can reach heights of up to 50 feet (15 meters), though often smaller in domestic landscapes.
Lifespan: Perennial
Plant Type: Shrub
Leaf Type: Evergreen
Dark green needle-like leaves, spirally arranged, with sharp points.
Multistemmed stem, brownish-gray, rough texture, branching from the base.
Distinctive red aril on fruit encasing green toxic seed.
Robust trunk with scaly reddish-brown bark peeling in irregular pieces.
Versatile plant appearing in tree or shrub form, reaching up to 50 feet (15 meters).
The leaves of japanese yew are needle-like, dark green, and measure approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length. They are flat and linear in shape with a subtle pointed tip. Notably, the underside of the leaves has a yellow-tinged hue. During the winter, the foliage can change to a reddish-brown or yellow color. The leaves are arranged spirally on the stem but appear to be in two ranks due to a slight twisting at the base. Their texture is smooth and leathery.
The stem of japanese yew is multistemmed, brownish-gray in color, and features a rough, flaky texture. It typically measures around 0.5 to 1 inch (1.2 to 2.5 cm) in diameter, often displaying a complex branching pattern. The branches arise from the base, giving it a shrubby appearance. This dense, multi-branching structure is crucial for identifying japanese yew. The bark can become fissured with age, adding to the textured appearance of the stem.
The fruit of japanese yew features a conspicuous red aril, a fleshy structure that partly encases the green seed within. This aril is soft and berry-like, attracting animals for seed dispersal. The encased seed is roughly 0.2 inches (5 mm) in diameter, with a smooth, glossy surface. While the aril may be safely consumed in small quantities, the inner seed remains toxic if ingested. The contrasting colors of the red aril and the green seed are distinctive, assisting in the identification of the fruit.
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Scientific Classification of Japanese yew
