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.
Spot a Pacific Yew? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Pacific Yew is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love plants? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.