Taxus baccata COMMON YEW (6 seeds)

Yew is a conifer from the Taxaceae family. Growing slowly, it is a tree that lends itself well to pruning. A stand of Yew trees is called a "Yew grove". These yew groves have become very rare nowadays. Yew groves are considered sacred woods in North Africa. The tree can live for more than 2,000 years. Its size varies from 6 to 10 meters in height at adult size.

Its wood is renowned for its density, hardness, and great elasticity. It features a narrow, yellowish-white sapwood that contrasts sharply with the orange-red or purplish-brown heartwood (duramen). It is a rot-proof wood that does not decay, historically prized for making bows and fine cabinetmaking.

The leaves come in the form of flat, soft, and non-prickly needles. They measure 2 to 3 centimeters long. Their upper surface is a glossy dark green, while the lower surface is matte and a lighter green. They are arranged spirally on the twigs. They are evergreen and highly toxic.

Common Yew seeds from Taxus baccata are oval and brown, about the size of a small olive pit. They are not contained in a classic cone but are partially enveloped by a fleshy, bright red aril. The seed is extremely dangerous due to its high concentration of taxine, a cardiotoxic alkaloid.

- Uses:

It is planted in gardens and cemeteries to adorn graves, either as a solitary specimen or in the form of hedges. In the natural environment, it is often found in the undergrowth. This plant is very well suited for topiary art, allowing for the creation of all kinds of shapes, such as cones, balls, and animal forms, similar to boxwood.

Its wood was widely used in the Middle Ages for making longbows and crossbows. This dark red wood is still highly appreciated for making small objects and decorative veneering. It is also used in furniture making and as fence posts.

This tree was venerated by the Celts. Its leaves were boiled to extract a poison. The Greek physician Dioscorides, a surgeon in Nero's armies, was even afraid of being poisoned by sleeping under its leaves.

- Germination and Sowing Seeds:

• The best period for sowing yew is in October-November.
• Sow the seeds in a tray of potting soil and sand.
• Leave the culture in a cold greenhouse all winter to perform stratification.
• Germination will take place in the spring after the winter period.
• If you wish to sow them in the spring, it will be necessary to stratify them for 2 to 3 months.
• Germination generally begins 4 to 8 weeks after stratification.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

The yew is very tolerant and adapts to almost all types of soil, whether acidic or alkaline (calcareous). However, it prefers cool, deep, and humus-rich soils. Good drainage is essential because, although it enjoys moisture, it does not tolerate prolonged waterlogged soils which can suffocate its roots.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

It is one of the few conifers capable of growing in all exposures. It thrives as well in full sun as in total shade. In the shade, its growth is slower and its foliage less dense, while in the sun, it becomes very bushy. This versatility makes it a preferred choice for hedges and undergrowth.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

Taxus baccata is extremely hardy. It withstands temperatures dropping to -20°C, or even -25°C without major damage. It also resists summer heat well, provided the soil does not dry out completely.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Its water needs are moderate. It is necessary to water young specimens regularly during the first two or three years after planting, especially in summer. Once well established, its powerful root system allows it to withstand temporary periods of drought.

- Propagation:

Cuttings are the most commonly used method because they allow the plant to retain its characteristics. Cuttings of semi-ripe stems are taken in late summer or autumn. Sowing is possible after mandatory stratification.

- Pests / Diseases:

The yew is generally not very sensitive, but it can be attacked by yew scale insects, which cause the appearance of sooty mold (black deposit). The most serious disease is root rot caused by Phytophthora in case of excess water.