Western yew, scientifically known as Taxus brevifolia, is a species of evergreen tree native to the western regions of North America. It belongs to the family Taxaceae and is commonly found in the Pacific Northwest, including parts of British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and Northern California.
The western yew is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to heights of 10 to 15 meters, with some specimens reaching up to 20 meters. It has a conical shape with dense branching and a wide crown. The bark is thin and reddish-brown, often peeling off in long, narrow strips.
The most distinct feature of the western yew is its needle-like leaves, which are dark green on top and lighter green on the underside. Unlike most coniferous trees, the leaves are arranged spirally rather than in pairs. The yew also bears small, inconspicuous flowers that are dioecious, meaning male and female reproductive structures are found on separate trees.
One of the unique characteristics of the western yew is its fleshy, red berries, which contain a single seed enclosed by a highly poisonous covering. The seeds are dispersed by birds, which can tolerate the toxins. While the majority of the western yew tree is highly toxic, including its leaves, bark, and seeds, there are some medicinal uses for extracts from certain parts of the tree in controlled quantities.
The western yew has a long lifespan, with some individuals living for over 1,000 years. It is often found in moist, shaded areas such as forests and can grow at various elevations, from sea level to subalpine regions.
Due to overharvesting and habitat loss, the western yew is considered a species of conservation concern in
