Yew

The yew tree (Taxus baccata)—known as barlind in Uxöléish, idegran in Wortsproke, taks in Arrane, if in xxx, yew in Hallish and ywen in Awenydd. It is a species of conifer native to northern and western Anaria, including Stoldavia and Thultannia, and southern Jorveh.

Description

Yews are medium-sized evergreen trees that grow to a height of 16-24 meters (52-79 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 3 meters (9 feet 10 inches). The leaves are lanceolate, flat, dark green, and measure 1-4 centimeters (0.39-1.6 inches) in length and 2-3 millimeters (0.079-0.12 inches) in width. The bark of the yew tree is thin, scaly, and brown.

Cultural Significance

Historically, yew trees have been used as peaceful meeting places for opposing sides during times of war. Their longevity is said to provide perspective, making human existence and conflicts seem fleeting against the vast expanse of history on Gotha. Because of their significance, several idioms have developed in relation to the yew tree:

• In Hallish, the phrase "find your tree" means to settle a dispute.
• In Awenydd, the expression "yn erbyn yr ywen" translates to "against the yew," meaning to keep on fighting, often for a worthy cause.

The yew tree's symbolic association with peace and endurance is also reflected in the proposed flag for the League for Peace, which features a yew tree as a central emblem.