Why do they plant yew trees in graveyards?

One can often find yew trees planted in or around graveyards. These ancient trees, with their characteristic dark green foliage and red berries, are believed to hold a special significance in relation to burial grounds. Let's delve deeper and explore the reasons why yew trees are commonly planted in graveyards.

The association between yew trees and death

Historically, the yew tree has been associated with death and the afterlife in many cultures. In Christian tradition, the tree is a symbol of the resurrection and eternal life. Meanwhile, the Druids, an ancient Celtic tribe, believed that the yew tree held the secret to immortality and the afterlife. The plant was used in funerary rites and plays an important role in various pagan rituals.

The longevity of yew trees

Yew trees can grow to be incredibly old – some specimens can live up to 2,000 years. Planting them in graveyards is therefore practical, as they are believed to be a symbol of continuity and perpetuity, ensuring that those who have passed away will not be forgotten. In many cultures, yew trees are also believed to possess healing properties and were once used as a source of medicine.

The symbolism of the evergreen foliage and red berries

The dark green foliage of the yew tree is a symbol of everlasting life, and the red berries represent blood or the life force of those who have passed away. This symbolism has its roots in ancient mythologies such as the Norse 'Yggdrasil' – a cosmic tree that connects various realms together – and the Greek 'Odin's yew', which is said to be the tree from which the god Odin hung himself.

The cultural significance of yew trees

Yew trees have long held cultural significance in many communities around the world. They are revered as symbols of strength, power, and resilience. Historically, they were often used to mark sacred sites, and planting them in graveyards signalled that the land was holy and protected. In particular, the ancient yew forests of Britain hold a special place in the cultural memory of the island.

The practical reasons for planting yew trees

Besides their symbolic and cultural significance, yew trees also provide practical benefits to graveyards. They are hardy, drought-resistant trees that require little maintenance, making them a perfect choice for planting in cemetery grounds. Additionally, yew trees have dense foliage that helps to protect gravesites from the elements, creating a peaceful and tranquil environment for visitors to pay their respects to the dead.

In conclusion

Planting yew trees in graveyards is a practice that dates back centuries and has strong cultural, symbolic, and practical significance. The evergreen foliage, red berries, and longevity of the yew tree make it an ideal choice for marking sacred sites such as graveyards. It is a fitting symbol of eternal life and resilience in the face of death, and its presence helps to create a peaceful and calming environment for visitors to pay their respects to the departed.