🌲 Taxus baccata (English Yew / European Yew)

The English Yew (Taxus baccata) is a slow-growing, long-lived evergreen tree or large shrub, valued for its timeless beauty, dense foliage, and historical significance. Native to Europe, northwest Africa, and southwest Asia, it has been a symbol of longevity and immortality for centuries, often found in churchyards and historic landscapes.

🍃 Foliage & Growth Habit

• 🌱 Evergreen Needles: Dark green, needle-like leaves arranged spirally, providing year-round interest

• 📏 Size: Mature trees can reach 15–20m (50–65 ft) in height with a conical or columnar shape

• 🌳 Bark: Reddish-brown bark that becomes flaky with age, adding extra character

🏛️ Historical & Cultural Significance

• ⚔️ Ancient Uses: Highly prized for making longbows in medieval times

• ⛪ Symbolism: Traditionally planted in churchyards and cemeteries, representing immortality and endurance

• 📜 Folklore: Steeped in myths and legends across Europe

🌞 Growing Conditions & Care

• ☀️ Light: Tolerates full sun to deep shade

• 🌱 Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soils, but highly adaptable

• ✂️ Pruning: Responds very well to trimming, ideal for hedges & topiary

• ⚠️ Toxicity: All parts (except the red aril around the seed) are poisonous if ingested

🏡 Landscape Uses

• 🌿 Hedges & Screens: Dense growth makes it excellent for formal hedging and privacy barriers

• 🌲 Specimen Tree: Its longevity and structure make it a focal point in large gardens and estates

• 🎨 Topiary & Shaping: Easily sculpted into formal shapes for classic garden designs

✨ Conclusion:
With its rich history, evergreen beauty, and versatility, Taxus baccata (English Yew) is a classic choice for hedges, screens, or specimen planting. A true heritage tree, it combines ornamental value with centuries of symbolism.

📦 Supplied in pots
🚚 Delivery in Ireland: 3–5 working days