Taxus baccata has deep dark green needles all year round. It is an evergreen tree that is also often used as a hedge. In winter, Taxus bears red fruits that are much loved by birds, but very poisonous to ungulates.
Taxus baccata is usually a sturdy shrub that, if given space, can grow into a tree. Growth is slow but eventually the tree can reach a height of about 15 to 20 meters with a width of 12 to 15 meters. The species is widely used for hedges and also for topiary. Bulbs, cones, columns and even animal shapes are available. Taxus can tolerate very strong pruning, even down to the perennial wood.
Taxus baccata is an important conifer in the cultural history of northwestern Europe. Traditionally, the species has been closely associated with the Christian faith and trees were planted at sacred springs, churches and castles, and in cemeteries. It is still one of the most planted trees in cemeteries today. The seeds and the needles are very poisonous, especially for ungulates. Legendary is the story that horses died in Zurich en masse because they ate from Taxus.
Taxus wood is hard, but often twisted and with a lot of knots. In the Middle Ages it was popular to make hand and crossbows. It is also suitable for the manufacture of small furniture, fencing, parquet floors and veneer. The needles of Taxus baccata contain an important cancer suppressant; baccatin. The pharmaceutical industry can isolate this material from young pruning waste. There are several ‘green’ companies that collect this pruning waste for this purpose.
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