Contents
Description
Taxus Baccata Standishii, also known as the Irish yew, is a variety of yew tree that is native to Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom. It is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach heights of up to 15 meters. The tree has a narrow, conical shape and dark green foliage that is arranged in a spiral pattern along the branches. The bark of the Irish yew is brownish-grey and is smooth when the tree is young, but becomes rough and scaly as it ages. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring and bright red berries in the fall. The Irish yew is a popular choice for hedges, topiary, and ornamental planting due to its attractive foliage and shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Taxaceae |
| Genus: | Taxus |
Appearance
The Irish yew has dark green foliage that is arranged in a spiral pattern along the branches. The needles are flat and have a glossy appearance. The tree has a narrow, conical shape that is symmetrical and well-proportioned. The bark of the Irish yew is brownish-grey and is smooth when the tree is young, but becomes rough and scaly as it ages. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring and bright red berries in the fall. The berries are poisonous and should not be consumed.
Care Guide
The Irish yew prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilizer should be applied in the spring and fall, using a balanced fertilizer. The tree prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but is best suited to hardiness zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Irish yew is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including scale insects, spider mites, and needle blight. These pests and diseases can be controlled with insecticides and fungicides, but prevention is the best approach. Keeping the tree healthy by providing it with proper care and maintenance can help to prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
The Irish yew is native to Ireland and parts of the United Kingdom, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky slopes. It is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the berries of the Irish yew tree poisonous?
A: Yes, the berries of the Irish yew tree are poisonous and should not be consumed.
Q: Can the Irish yew tree be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Irish yew tree can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How tall can the Irish yew tree grow?
A: The Irish yew tree can reach heights of up to 15 meters.
Q: Does the Irish yew tree require pruning?
A: Yes, the Irish yew tree may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
- Taxus Baccata
- Taxus Cuspidata
- Taxus Floridana
- Taxus Wallichiana
References
- Dirr, M. A. (1998). Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses. Stipes Publishing.
- Huxley, A., Griffiths, M., & Levy, M. (1999). The New Royal Horticultural Society Dictionary of Gardening. Grove’s Dictionaries.
- Wyman, D. (1994). Wyman’s Gardening Encyclopedia. Macmillan.
