Contents
Description
Taxus is a genus of coniferous trees and shrubs that belong to the family Taxaceae. Commonly known as yews, these plants are native to the Northern Hemisphere, with the majority found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The genus comprises approximately 8 species of evergreen trees and shrubs that have dark green needle-like leaves and produce fleshy, brightly-colored fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Taxaceae |
| Genus | Taxus |
Appearance
The yew tree has a wide range of sizes, with some reaching over 20 meters in height while others only grow to be a few meters tall. They have a pyramidal, conical, or columnar shape with a short trunk and a dense canopy. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and needle-like, measuring between 1 and 4 centimeters long. The yew produces fleshy, cup-shaped fruits that are red, orange, or yellow, depending on the species.
Care Guide
Yews are hardy plants that require little maintenance. They tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels, but they prefer well-draining soil. They also prefer full sun or partial shade and are hardy to USDA zones 4-9. Yews should be watered regularly during the first year after planting, but after that, they only need to be watered during periods of drought. Fertilizer can be applied in early spring, and pruning can be done in late winter or early spring to control the size and shape of the plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Yews are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Scale insects and spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Powdery mildew can be prevented by planting yews in well-draining soil and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Yews are native to the Northern Hemisphere and can be found throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. They are commonly found in forests, woodlands, and rocky areas, and they prefer cool, moist environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Can yews be grown in containers?
A: Yes, yews can be grown in containers, but they may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Do yews produce flowers?
A: Yes, yews produce small, inconspicuous flowers that are not particularly noticeable.
Q: Are yews toxic?
A: Yes, all parts of the yew plant, except for the fleshy fruit, are toxic and should not be ingested.
Q: Are yews endangered?
A: Yes, some species of yews are endangered due to over-harvesting for their wood and bark.
Related Plants
- Taxus baccata (English yew)
- Taxus brevifolia (Pacific yew)
- Taxus canadensis (Canadian yew)
- Taxus cuspidata (Japanese yew)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of woody landscape plants: Their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Taxus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b313
- The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Taxus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/12191/Taxus/Details
