Yew (European Yew / English Yew)
Taxus baccata • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Usually straight but often irregular or wavy due to many small knots; fine, uniform texture with very narrow growth rings displaying a distinct transition between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically reddish-orange or brown, sometimes with purplish streaks. Sapwood is a pale yellow or thin white band. Color tends to darken with age and UV exposure to a rich orange-brown.
Hardness Rating
1,520 lbf (Hard) - Exceptionally hard for a softwood, exceeding many common hardwoods like White Oak.
Durability Rating
Very Durable; high natural resistance to decay and insects, though sapwood is susceptible to powder post beetle attack.
Common Uses
Longbows, fine furniture, cabinetry, woodturning, tool handles, veneer, and small decorative items.
Geographic Origin
Western, Central, and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa, and Northern Iran.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$15.00 - $30.00 per board foot; high value due to slow growth and limited commercial availability.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be freshly cut or relatively young (under 1 year since harvesting) based on the lack of oxidation and bright, pale coloration of the sapwood.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN), though protected in some local regions; not CITES listed. Limited availability makes it a niche luxury wood.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though knots can cause tearout. Glues, finishes, and turns excellently; wood is very flexible and elastic.
Notable Features
Highly toxic if ingested (seeds, needles, and wood dust); contains taxines. Known for its historical role in bow-making and its incredible density compared to other conifers.
Finish Recommendations
Takes all finishes well; clear oils or shellac are recommended to highlight the fine grain and warm natural tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinctively tight growth rings, thin pale sapwood, reddish-brown heartwood, and characteristic 'Yew' written in the background supporting the visual cues.