A UK native tree, long associated with folklore and tradition and typically occurring in churchyards and other ancient sites. Like oaks they are very long lived, with some UK specimens known to be more than 1,000 years old. The strong, flexible wood was traditionally used to make archery bows. The dark evergreen foliage has been used extensively in English garden design – especially as hedges and topiary features. The seeds (which are poisonous to humans) are covered by a red, berry-like ‘aril’ which birds love to eat in autumn. There are more than a dozen yews alongside the Red Mount Chapel.
