Fortingall Yew

tree, Fortingall, Scotland, United Kingdom

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July 19, 2026

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The Fortingall Yew is an ancient English yew tree located in the village of Fortingall, Scotland, United Kingdom. It is considered the oldest living tree in Great Britain and one of the oldest in Europe, with an estimated age of 2,000 to 5,000 years.1

English yews (Taxus baccata) are evergreen trees or shrubs known for their longevity. They are widely distributed across Europe and Asia. All parts of the English yew, except for the fleshy aril surrounding the seed, contain poisonous alkaloids. Despite this, birds like thrushes consume the aril and help disperse the seeds. The Fortingall Yew is a significant natural landmark in Scotland.1

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English yew
For example, the Fortingall Yew, named for the small Scottish village where it has been growing for some 2,000 to 5,000 years, is the oldest living tree in Great Britain and one of the oldest living trees in Europe.
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For example, the Fortingall Yew, named for the small Scottish village where it has been growing for some 2,000 to 5,000 years, is the oldest living tree in Great Britain and one of the oldest living trees in Europe.
Read More