Definition

1. 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

1. predominant yew in Europe; extraordinarily long-lived and slow growing; one of the oldest species in the world