description Taxus baccata Overview
Taxus baccata, commonly called European or English yew, is a slow-growing evergreen conifer native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia. It tolerates shade and repeated pruning, which has made it a longstanding choice for hedges, screens, and topiary, while some specimens can survive for many centuries. Most parts of the plant contain toxic taxine alkaloids, and the species also contains taxane compounds used as starting material in the production of certain anticancer medicines.
insights Ranking position
Taxus baccata ranks #8 of 535 in the Shrub ranking, behind Salvia rosmarinus, ahead of Viburnum plicatum (Doublefile Viburnum).
help Taxus baccata FAQ
Which parts of Taxus baccata are poisonous?
The seeds, needles, and most other tissues contain toxic taxine compounds that can disrupt heart function. The red fleshy aril around each seed is not considered toxic, but eating the seed or other plant parts remains dangerous.
Can English yew be kept as a formal hedge?
Yes. Taxus baccata tolerates shade, close clipping, and repeated pruning, which is why it has long been used for formal hedges and topiary in European gardens.
Will an old Taxus baccata regrow after hard pruning?
Unlike many conifers, yew can often produce new growth from old, apparently bare wood. Severe renovation is still usually staged over time because recovery depends on the plant's health and growing conditions.
How can you tell male and female Taxus baccata plants apart?
English yew is usually dioecious, meaning male and female reproductive structures occur on separate plants. Female plants can produce red arils after pollination, while male plants release pollen from small cones.
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