It’s no secret that the yew tree has a bit of a reputation for being toxic. From the needles and seeds to the wood itself, the tree contains a highly poisonous alkaloid called taxine. Because of this, I get asked all the time: “Is it actually safe to burn yew wood in my fireplace or fire pit?” The short answer is: Yes, you can! Here’s the lowdown on how to handle it safely.
Burning yew wood isn’t dangerous
The taxine found in yew trees only causes poisoning if it’s actually ingested. You don’t have to worry about getting sick just by touching the wood or burning it. In fact, the high heat of a fire actually destroys the taxine, so the smoke won’t cause you any issues.
Before you go tossing those logs into the stove, though, keep in mind that yew wood is actually quite valuable! It’s a favorite for woodworkers and crafters because of its strength and beautiful grain. If you’ve taken down a whole tree or have a large stash, you might want to see if a local woodworker wants to buy it off you first. But if you’re just looking to get rid of it, it makes great firewood. Just make sure to let it season (dry out) properly first so you don’t end up with a smoky mess.
You can also compost it
Got trimmings instead of logs? You can absolutely compost yew clippings. Pro tip: run them through a wood chipper or shredder first to help them break down faster. As the material rots, soil bacteria naturally break down the toxic compounds. Once it’s fully decomposed, that compost is perfectly safe to use in your vegetable garden or flower beds without a second thought.
Safety tips for pruning:
- Always wear protective gloves
- Use sharp, clean pruning shears
While the wood itself is safe to burn, the sap can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions for some people. That’s why I always recommend wearing gloves and even safety glasses when you’re pruning your yew. If you decide to compost the clippings rather than burn them, it’s a good idea to bury them in the pile or cover them up. This keeps curious pets or kids away from the toxic needles while they’re still fresh.
