Taxus brevifolia aka Pacific Yew

Taxus brevifolia is an evergreen conifer in the yew family. Its common names include Pacific yew and western yew. It grows from southern Alaska through the western United States. Wild plants live in forests, ravines, and along streams. They may grow alone or in small groups beneath conifers. This slow-growing species can live for many years.

Its size varies widely with its site and growing form. NC State gives a garden height of 6–12 feet [1.8–3.7 metres]. It lists a spread of 3–6 feet [0.9–1.8 metres]. Oregon State describes trees reaching 40–50 feet [12–15 metres]. Some reach 80 feet [24 metres]. Dense forest cover favors a tree form. Drier, open sites can produce low shrubs with broad mats. Older trunks may have grooves and an uneven shape.

Thin bark sheds small scales with dark purple-brown outer layers. The inner bark has red to purple tones. Slender, round twigs stay green for several years. Flat needles spiral around stems but can seem two-ranked. Their upper sides are yellow-green, with paler green beneath. Each needle ends in a narrow, sharp tip. Male and female cones grow on separate plants. Small yellow male cones release pollen. Female plants form single seeds within fleshy red arils. These appear in summer and fall, and birds eat them.

Partial shade suits this yew, though Oregon State lists sun too. It prefers moist soil that drains well. It also withstands dry spells and accepts several soil pH levels. Sources place its hardiness within USDA zones 4–9. Late frost can harm fresh spring growth. Planting small specimens avoids moving plants with few fine roots. It serves as a woodland tree, shade-garden accent, or screen. Deer, elk, and moose browse it, and several moths use it. Needle blight, root disease, and internal rot can cause damage. Pests include grape mealybug, budworm, and Asiatic garden beetle.

Its hard, strong wood serves for bows, paddles, and tool handles. Its bark and shoots contain taxol, used in cancer treatment. Harvest for wood and medicine has harmed some wild populations. This is not a plant for home remedies. The sweet aril flesh is edible, but the seed is poisonous. Other parts also pose a poisoning risk to people and animals. Dogs, cats, and horses can suffer severe or fatal poisoning.