Yew, Pacific

(Taxus brevifolia)

North America

The growth range of the species is reported to be exclusive to the Pacific Northwest of North America, from southernmost Alaska south to central California, mostly in the Pacific Coast Ranges, but with an isolated disjunct population in southeast British Columbia and south to central Idaho.

The Pacific Yew is also commonly refered to as Western Yew, Canadian Yew, Oregon Yew, and Mountain Mahagony.

The Pacific Yew is a medium-sized conifer or evergreen tree, growing 10-15 m tall and with a trunk up to 50 cm in diameter, rarely more. The wood has a thin light tan sapwood, while the heartwood is brown to bright orange. It is dense, very hard and strong, heavy and has a very fine, straight and close grain with a fine texture. It has a high luster and has no characteristic odor or taste.