Common yew - Taxus baccata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Common yew

Also known as: Yew

Common yew (Taxus baccata) is a medium-sized evergreen tree. Every part of this tree is poisonous and consumption can result in death. Common yew is native to Europe, as well as parts of Africa, Iran, and southwest Asia. Historically, wood from this species was used to make English longbows - important weapons in medieval tactical warfare.

Scientific classification

Species

Common yew (Taxus baccata)

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Toxic to Pets

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

10 m to 20 m

Plant Height

6 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

3 mm to 6 mm

Flower Size

Red

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Common yew

Distribution of Common yew

Distribution Map

Common yew is a species indigenous to temperate regions of Europe and adjacent areas of North Africa and Western Asia. In terms of continents, it is native to parts of Europe and to regions extending to the Mediterranean and parts of Asia. It has also been introduced to North and South America, as well as New Zealand, where it is cultivated. Common yew has adapted to a variety of environments in its introduced ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods and scrub, on limestone

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Common yew is an excellent specimen tree or shrub for boundary hedging, screens, and topiary. It attracts a range of wildlife, providing shelter and seeds for birds. It also provides four-season interest and is extremely versatile.

Symbolism

The Tree of Life, Immortality, Rebirth, Protection, Longevity, Change, Divinity, Strength

Interesting Facts

All yews, including the common yew, produce poisonous berries. Often found growing in old English churchyards, the common yew symbolizes long life. Old folklore suggests they were actually planted at old pagan holy sites and that the poisonous berries would ward off the church being built. In ancient times, the yew was believed to possess magical powers.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Common yew, including the following common varieties :

English yew 'Fastigiata Robusta'English yew 'Repens Aurea'English yew 'Fastigiata Aurea'English yew 'Standishii'English yew 'Fastigiata'English yew 'Semperaurea'English yew 'Summergold'

Toxicity

Common yew is highly toxic to humans and animals upon ingestion. Every part of the plant, including leaves, seeds, and bark, contains potent compounds. Symptoms include tremors, difficulty breathing, vomiting, convulsions, and cardiac arrhythmia. Immediate attention is required for poisoning cases. The red berries are especially dangerous. Always maintain caution around this plant to prevent severe health consequences.

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Quickly Identify Common yew

Needle-like leaves, 0.5-1.5 inches (1.3-3.8 cm) long, with yellowish-green undersides.

Male cones yellowish, female arils red; no traditional flowers present.

Bright red arils encasing toxic seed, visually striking against green.

Linear leaves in pairs on the stem, shiny dark green upper surface.

Rugged reddish-brown bark with scaly texture, revealing lighter underbark over time.

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Care Guide for Common yew

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Common yew prefers moisture-retentive soils and benefits from watering every two weeks. Once established, it shows moderate drought tolerance. As an evergreen, common yew retains hydration in its needles year-round and adapts well to varying rain patterns while favoring stable moisture.

Fertilize: For common yew, apply balanced nutrition fertilizer annually in early spring to support slow growth. Use specific evergreen formulas to avoid overfeeding. Increase frequency during active growth and adjust for young plants. Follow label instructions carefully to prevent runoff, ensuring optimal vitality while mitigating disease risk.

Pruning: Common yew is an evergreen conifer featuring dense dark green foliage and red berries. Prune in early to late winter to enhance shape and remove damaged wood. Regular trimming supports denser growth. Use sharp tools for health, and be cautious of toxic parts during handling.

Propagation: Common yew is a slow-growing evergreen conifer with dark foliage and red arils. Propagation via seeds from ripe arils requires cleaning and stratification for germination. Sow seeds in well-draining soil with consistent moisture, avoiding overwatering to prevent rot. Patience is essential for establishment.

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