The dangers of the Yew, an ancient and poisonous tree

Tejo

Hansel and Gretel weren't cunning brothers, the big bad wolf just fooled them. In addition, they had the bad idea of ​​leaving footprints with breadcrumbs, volatile and within the reach of birds. What were these innocent storytelling brothers thinking? It would have been too fatal if when walking through the forest they also met a yew tree and eat its fruits, poisonous as few ...

This species is very common in the forests of Europe, western Asia, in some mountain ranges of Portugal, in certain parts of Spain and in North Africa, so it would not have been strange to see one on the way. Of course it would have been a risky move for the Brothers Grimm.

If one day you see one of these trees, avoid being so innocent because it is about one of the most dangerous in the world.

The dangers of yew

The funny thing is that it is an innocent tree at first glance. Like the witch in some tales, she deceives with her strong green appearance, with her attractive angry red fruits. But do not be fooled: it is a very dangerous plant because contains taxin, a highly toxic alkaline that causes seizures, hypotension and can lead to death. Even yew has been used for abortions. Except for the fruit wrap, the rest of the tree is poisonous.

Tejo

The funny thing is that its effects contrast with its appearance since the Yew wood is also widely used in carpentry and cabinetmaking because it is very resistant.

Features

The scientific name of Yew is Taxus baccata L. and belongs to the Taxaceae family. It is a small tree that stands out for its pyramidal crown and horizontal branches. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach a height of between 4 and 20 meters, with a conical crown when it has a single trunk or irregular if it has several trunks.

Tejo

The fruits are very red and look like cherries at first glance, contrasting with the flat, soft, needle-like leaves. It is a species that blooms in spring.

It is common to find it in cemeteries because it is a tree of long life and symbolizes eternal life. Also next to monuments because it is considered a living witness of its history.


4 comments, leave yours

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  1.   José said

    Well, I did not know, the curious tree the Yew

    1.    Monica Sanchez said

      Yes, the truth 🙂

  2.   frameworks said

    Is dry yew wood toxic.

    1.    Monica Sanchez said

      Hi marcos.
      No, if it is well dry, no. But wow, it's not edible either.
      A greeting.