Yew

Description

Botanists around the world marvel at the unique characteristics of the yew, Europe's 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.

Fred Hageneder is the author of many books on the natural and cultural history of trees. He lives in South Wales at the edge of the Black Mountains.

This book is a real treasure trove of information about why the British yew is so important to nature, as well as socially, politically and culturally. Hageneder divulges the latest scientific discoveries about this fascinating and longest-lived of our countrys trees some individuals are estimated to be over 3,000 years old and discusses its regenerative powers.' -BBC Wildlife Magazine; '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.' - TLS; 'What a marvellous book this is. The production quality is high. Yew trees are so visually stunning that its a wonder anyone ever photographs anything else . . . any work which communicates the mystery and fascination of these old trees is to be welcomed, and Hageneders book is a beautiful introduction to the field.' - Time & Mind; 'Yew is the most compact, knowledgeable and enjoyable book that I have ever come across on our (humankinds) 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 enthral, entice and educate.' - Dr Peter Thomas, Keele University, UK; 'Fred Hageneders book opened my eyes on how interesting human history can be, seen from the viewpoint of a tree.' - Dr. Fabrizio Frascaroli, University of Zurich; 'If there is one tree that has stood still, witnessing the human civilization unfold, that is yew. Fred Hageneders Yew is a kaleidoscope that elegantly reveals the multifaceted and colourful nature of this marvellous tree right from its microscopic anatomy, its geographical distribution and its historical legacy all the way through to its artistic expression, its sacredness and its conservation status. Delightfully illustrated and meticulously referenced, Yew is a must-have for everyone inspired by this magnificent tree.' - Dr Shonil Bhagwat, The Open University and University of Oxford, UK; 'Yew> presents the history of this tree in a clear and enthralling way as well as exemplary from the scientific point of view. It will contribute to make yew, a species of great scientific importance, known not only to experts but to a greater public. Yew is considered essential for the study on the evolution of gymnospermae it is regarded with great interest in modern medicine for its practical utility it has an extraordinary cultural appeal because, more than other species, yew accompanied human events since prehistory. Nevertheless, yew trees are at risk of extinction in a number of countries. Hageneders work can contribute to their conservation and I wish the book the success it deserves.' - Bartolomeo Schirone, Professor of Dendrology and Silviculture, University of Tuscia, Italy