Taxus baccata (yew) is a large, evergreen and coniferous tree, often seen growing in churchyards. In gardens it's typically grown as a hedge – it makes a fine, formal, evergreen hedging or topiary plant. As a hedge, yew provides the perfect, dark green backdrop to more colourful plants. Its dense growth habit make it the perfect shelter for nesting birds and its bright red berries are eaten by birds and grey squirrels.

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All parts of the yew tree are poisonous, but it's the berries (in particular the seeds) that contain the highest concentrations of taxine alkaloids. Birds and grey squirrels are able to eat the fruit, either eating only the flesh or passing the seed intact through their digestive system. However, it's important to ensure that you, your children and pets do not to consume yew berries or needles, as they could cause severe illness if eaten in sufficient quantities. Yew poisoning symptoms can include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Irregular heart rate
  • Muscle weakness
  • Nausea and vomiting

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