Collection - No 17
Taxus Baccata -
English Yew
Native to Europe. This very long lived and slow growing tree is perfect for use as Bonsai, having dark bark and dark green foliage,
Yew is found in many church yards as it was planted there as a crop tree for use in Bows, whilst being poisonous to live stock especially horses, it need to be kept separate from them, Churches were often the only fenced or walled areas hence the planting.
Great care should be taken when working with them as all parts are toxic, with lethal doses as low as 3.0mg/kg of body weight; lower doses will cause severe discomfort. Gloves should be warn whenever working with Yew.
General Care
Can grow in full sun but do better in semi shade or full shade, feed little and often through the growing season,
Having slow growing fleshy roots repotting is less often needed than most trees.
Yew bud back very well, even from old trunk wood, making them suitable as hedging plants and very apt for Bonsai. Trim new growth to maintain shape.
Further information
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taxus_baccata