Taxus baccata
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Definition
- Noun:
- A species of coniferous tree: Taxus baccata is the scientific name for a specific, predominantly European species of yew tree. It is characterized by dark green, needle-like leaves and red, berry-like seed coverings called arils.
- A long-lived and slow-growing tree: The definition emphasizes its extraordinary longevity and very slow growth rate, noting it is one of the oldest living tree species in the world.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The ancient Taxus baccata in the churchyard is estimated to be over 500 years old.
- Botanists study the genetics of Taxus baccata to understand its longevity.
- All parts of the Taxus baccata, except the red aril, are highly poisonous.
Advanced Usage
- In botanical and horticultural contexts: The name is used for precise scientific classification and to distinguish this species from other yews (e.g., , the Canadian yew).
- The cultivar Taxus baccata 'Fastigiata', the Irish yew, has an upright, columnar growth habit.
- In historical and cultural contexts: It is often referenced in discussions of ancient woodlands, historical sites, and traditional uses.
- The bow was made from the durable wood of Taxus baccata.
Variants and Related Words
- Common yew: The most frequent common name for .
- English yew: A common name, especially when referring to trees in the British Isles.
- European yew: A name emphasizing its primary geographical distribution.
- Yew (Taxus): The general genus name; is a species within this genus.
Synonyms
- Common yew
- European yew
- English yew
Related Phrases and Terms
- Yew tree: The general term for trees of the genus .
- Taxol: A chemotherapy drug originally derived from the bark of the Pacific yew (); often associated with yews in general, including , in scientific literature.
- Aril: The fleshy, red, cup-shaped structure that surrounds the seed of .
Noun
- predominant yew in Europe; extraordinarily long-lived and slow growing; one of the oldest species in the world