Botanists around the world marvel at the unique characteristics of the yew, Europes most ancient species of tree. It is a conifer without resin or cones but with juicy scarlet fruits that feed many birds and animals; it has foliage that is poisonous to livestock but which wild animals can eat; and though it has an extraordinarily low rate of photosynthesis, it can grow where other tree seedlings and plants just wither and die. This comprehensive, richly illustrated cultural and natural history includes the latest scientific discoveries about this remarkable tree.
