Common Yew (iúr)

Often found as a very ancient tree, Taxus baccata is a medium-sized to large, rather slow-growing, evergreen tree with beautiful red bark and a dense, bushy, spreading habit. The very narrow, leathery leaves are very dark green, in pairs on either side of the shoot. Insignificant flowers appear in spring, and are followed, on female trees, by red fruits, which persist into winter, and are attractive to birds; birds also like the dense habit of the tree. Be aware that the tree is poisonous. Yew makes an excellent hedge and topiary, and tolerates hard clipping. Yew trees do not need any pruning. Common yew holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any well-drained soil
Position: Full sun, full shade or partial shade
Season of interest: All year; on female trees, autumn in particular
Hardiness: Exceptionally hardy
Height: over 49’ (12m) Spread: over 26’ (8m) in 20-50 years