Name |
Pacific Yew (Taxus brevifolia) |
Type |
Softwood. |
Other Names |
Also known as yew or western yew. |
Sources |
Grows in western Canada and United States. |
Appearance |
Even grained with a very fine texture. Bright orange to rose-red heartwood and light yellow sapwood. |
Physical Props |
Heavy, hard, strong, and stiff with good shock resistance, good steam bending, very good decay resistance, and good stability in service. |
Working Props |
Generally works well especially for turning, but has tendency to split. Saw dust may cause nose irritation in some people. Holds screws and nails well but pre-drilling recommended to prevent splitting. Finishes smoothly although oil-based finishes will turn heartwood to a chocolate brown. |
Uses |
Valued for turnery, archery bows and other bent work. Also used for canoe paddles, carvings, novelties, musical instruments, and paneling. |
Comments |
In relatively scarce supply. |