[Illustration: Yew, groundhemlock
_Taxus 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 includes =taxine=, 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.