Contents
Description
Taxus Baccata, commonly known as yew, is a species of evergreen trees that belongs to the Taxaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. Yew trees are known for their ornamental value and are widely used in landscaping. The tree has dark green needles that are highly poisonous. It produces a small, red, fleshy fruit that is also poisonous.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya || Kingdom | Plantae || Phylum | Pinophyta || Class | Pinopsida || Order | Pinales || Family | Taxaceae || Genus | Taxus || Species | Taxus Baccata |
Appearance
Yew trees can grow up to 20 meters tall and have a spread of up to 10 meters. The tree has a pyramidal shape with a straight trunk that is covered in brown bark. The needles are dark green, glossy, and measure around 1-4 centimeters in length. The bark of the tree is brown and scaly. The fruit is a small, red, fleshy berry that is around 8 millimeters in diameter.
Care Guide
Water
Yew trees require regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Yew trees do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Soil
The tree prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight
Yew trees prefer partial shade to full sun exposure.
Hardiness Zones
Yew trees can grow in hardiness zones 6-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Yew trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Common pests include scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. Common diseases include root rot, blight, and canker.
Habitat
Yew trees are native to Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of habitats including forests, rocky outcrops, and coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Are yew trees poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the yew tree are highly poisonous, including the needles and fruit.
Q: Can yew trees grow in full sun?
A: Yes, yew trees can grow in full sun but prefer partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for yew trees?
A: Yew trees can grow in hardiness zones 6-8.
Q: How often should yew trees be watered?
A: Yew trees require regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Related Plants
- Taxus Cuspidata
- Taxus Brevifolia
- Taxus Chinensis
- Taxus Floridana
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Manual of woody landscape plants: their identification, ornamental characteristics, culture, propagation and uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Taxus baccata. Fact sheet ST-644. Environmental Horticulture Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.
- Kim, Y. S., & Kim, S. H. (2011). Variations in the morphological and molecular characteristics of Taxus cuspidata and Taxus baccata in Korea. Journal of Plant Biology, 54(1), 46-53.
