Botanists around the world marvel at theunique characteristics of the yew, Europe'smost ancient species of tree. It is a 'conifer'without resin or cones but with juicy scarletfruits that feed many birds and animals; ithas foliage that is poisonous to livestock butwhich wild animals can eat; and though it hasan extraordinarily low rate of photosynthesis,it can grow where other tree seedlings andplants just wither and die.

This comprehensive, richly illustratedcultural and natural history includes the latestscientific discoveries about this remarkabletree.

'Yew is the most compact, knowledgeable and enjoyable book that I have ever come across on our long relationship with these wonderful long-lived trees. No matter how much you already know about yews there will be many new nuggets of information within that will enthrall, entice and educate.' Peter Thomas, Keele University, UK

'It is tempting to say that Fred Hageneder knows all there is to know about this species, but what he knows best of all is that there is still much to learn about the yew. It is that air of mystery that gives this well-paced and beautifully illustrated book its fascination.' Times Literary Supplement