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Clean, pale domestic alternative for furniture and utility builds.
View optionEuropean Yew Wood Guide
Wood species guide · Imported specialty hardwood
European Yew is best understood by how it looks, how it works, and where it should be used. This guide explains the practical buying details before sending you to the right Kingma products.
Scientific nameTaxus baccata
Janka hardness1,520 lbf
Average dried weight42.1 lb/ft³
Best fitTurned objects
Overview
Why choose European Yew?
European Yew is an imported specialty hardwood. Its natural range is Europe and Southwest Asia. Used for turned objects, instruments such as lutes, carvings, furniture, cabinetry, veneer and archery bows.
Scientific nameTaxus baccata
DistributionEurope and Southwest Asia
ShrinkageRadial: 3.4%, Tangential: 5.3%, Volumetric: 8.3%, T/R Ratio: 1.6 More images | Identification
DurabilityDurable to very durable against decay, and resistant to most insects.
European Yew colour, grain, and figure
The sapwood forms a thin band that is pale yellow or tan, and the heartwood is orangey brown, in places tinted darker brown or purplish. The colour darkens as the wood ages.
Straight grain, fine and uniform in texture, with good natural shine.
Working notes
Overall this is easy to work, although knots and grain irregularities can make it harder. Gluing, finishing and turning all go well.
Yew is a reported irritant, though serious reactions are rare.
European Yew should be sold by project fit: colour, workability, durability, and the format the customer actually needs.
Best uses for European Yew
Best projects
Used for turned objects, instruments such as lutes, carvings, furniture, cabinetry, veneer and archery bows.
Use caution
Avoid specifying it by name alone; confirm board size, moisture, colour, figure, and the project environment before buying.
Finish strategy
Test finishes on offcuts first, especially when colour, blotching, outdoor exposure, or grain filling matters.
Buying note
Choose boards, slabs, plywood, blanks, or posts based on the project rather than species name alone.
Shop path
Buying European Yew from Kingma
Start with the direct species match when Kingma sells it. If stock rotates, use the closest live collection or a clearly explained alternative.
Live edge slabs
Use when the customer cares more about slab format and visual impact than this exact species.
View optionSimilar woods and alternatives
If Kingma does not have an exact match online, use the buying links below as practical alternatives only when the colour, grain, hardness, or project environment makes sense.
European Yew FAQ
What is European Yew best used for?
Used for turned objects, instruments such as lutes, carvings, furniture, cabinetry, veneer and archery bows. Match it to the exact board format, colour, hardness, and finish plan before buying.
Is European Yew beginner friendly?
It depends on density, grain direction, and tooling. Test cuts on offcuts first, and choose Maple, Cherry, Walnut, or Poplar when easier machining is the priority.
Does Kingma sell European Yew?
The buying section on this page links to any European Yew Kingma has in stock and to the closest alternatives. Stock changes often, so call (780) 229-7681 or visit the yard at 4607 91 Ave NW, Edmonton to check what is in today.