Pacific Yew became famous in the 1990s when the anti-cancer drug paclitaxel (Taxol) was discovered in its bark, leading to extensive harvesting. It is a slow-growing understory tree of moist Pacific Northwest forests. Deer browse the foliage despite its toxicity, and many birds eat the sweet red arils while the toxic seed passes unharmed.
Best time to see a Pacific Yew
The best time to see a Pacific Yew is March–August, when about 64% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,225 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Pacific Yew? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Pacific Yew sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Pacific Yew?
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