YEW
Yew, groundhemlockTaxus canadensis, Taxus baccata—TAXACEAE
Yew, groundhemlockTaxus canadensis, Taxus baccata—TAXACEAE
Description:The yew, also known as English, Irish, and American yew, is an evergreen tree or shrub often used as a hedge and found growing in many gardens or as a decorative plant around homes. Its fruits are bright red fleshy “berries” borne on the twigs and they frequently attract children. A large hole sometimes appearing in their ends gives an appearance of a deep red cup.
Poisonous Parts:All parts of the yew are poisonous. Fortunately the red fruits are the least harmful, although if large quantities are consumed these too can cause harm. Poisoning may result in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, circulatory failure, and difficulty in breathing. The poisonous principle includestaxine, an alkaloid which depresses the heart function.
Antidote:Call your doctor. Have patient vomit. Physicians perform gastric lavage and treat for circulatory failure and alkaloid poisoning.