Yew (Common Yew or European Yew)
Taxus baccata · Softwood (Conifer)
- Type
- Softwood (Conifer)
- Origin
- Native to Western, Central and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa, and Southwest Asia.
- Hardness
- 1,520 lbf (Hard); unusually high for a softwood, exceeding many common hardwoods like White Oak.
- Durability
- Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy or irregular grain with a very fine, uniform texture. Frequently exhibits small clusters of knots (pippy yew) and tight annual rings due to slow growth.
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is typically a bright orange-brown to reddish-brown, often with purplish or dark streaks. Sapwood is a thin, creamy white to pale yellow. The wood possesses a natural luster and tends to darken and enrich in color with age.
Hardness (Janka)
1,520 lbf (Hard); unusually high for a softwood, exceeding many common hardwoods like White Oak.
Durability & Decay Resistance
Very Durable; excellent natural resistance to rot and decay, though sapwood is susceptible to insect attack.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $15.00 - $25.00 per board foot; high value due to scarcity of large, clear timber.
- Wood Age Estimate
- The sample appears to be modern-cut/kiln-dried with fresh surfacing, though the tree itself was likely several decades old given the tight growth rings visible.
- Sustainability Status
- Listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, though large wild old-growth stands are rare; not CITES listed but often sourced from managed estates or salvaged trees.
Common Uses
Archery bows (longbows), fine furniture, cabinetry, woodturning, carving, veneers, and tool handles.
Geographic Origin
Native to Western, Central and Southern Europe, Northwest Africa, and Southwest Asia.
Workability
Generally easy to work despite its hardness, though knots can cause tearout. Glues, finishes, and turns excellently. Can be tough on blades due to its density.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based finishes (tung or linseed) exceptionally highlight the warm colors and luster; shellac or clear lacquer are also excellent choices for a high-gloss look.
Notable Features
Highly toxic if ingested (contains taxine alkaloids). Exceptionally flexible and elastic, making it the premier wood for traditional longbows. Distinctive scent when worked.
