Yew |

Yew
Since ancient times the Yew has been viewed as a protector of the dead. The Yew tree has become a common feature in graveyards across Europe as a guardian against evil and negative forces. Some people even believed that the removal or cutting down of the tree would result in misfortune and dire consequences. The location of churches has often been associated with Pagan sites of worship and perhaps this is one reason why so many are found together. The tree is also a symbol of immortality, with the tree being able to live to considerable age. This could also be a reason for the proximity of church and tree.
The Yew tree is the symbolic tree of the Fraser clan (Scotland Uk). The Highlanders believed it brought them good luck and kept evil spirits at bay. It is also poisonous to cattle!