Gymnosperm of the day: Taxus baccata!

Today is dedicated to a rather well known gymnosperm: the European Yew. As the name suggests, this plant is native to Europe, where it can be found in all countries except Iceland. It's full range extends to northern parts of Africa, and eastwards to Iran.

Outside of the wild, it's used a lot as a horticultural plant. However, Taxus baccata was and is used for more than just decoration.

In the past, its wood was widely used to make longbows, due to its elasticity. This use was also paired with massive declines in its wild population, going so far that the Holy Roman Emperor of the time had to ask for a ban on cutting down more trees.

Today, the plant knows another interesting use: the leaves and twigs contain taxol, an anti-cancer agent. Quite a few organisations accept donations of pruning waste for this purpose.