Coniferous trees with red berries NYT

The crossword clue "Coniferous trees with red berries" with the answer "YEWS" refers to a type of coniferous tree known for its distinctive red berries. Yews are evergreen trees or shrubs belonging to the genus Taxus, and they are characterized by their needle-like leaves and the bright red, fleshy berries they produce.

Unlike many conifers that have cones, yews have these unique berries, which are encased in a red, fleshy aril. The berries are a notable feature of yews and add to their distinctive appearance in the landscape. Yews are often used in landscaping for their attractive foliage and berries, making them a recognizable and valued tree in various settings.

The crossword clue "Coniferous trees with red berries" with the answer "TAMARACK" refers to a type of coniferous tree known for its unique features. Tamaracks, also known as larches, are deciduous conifers that lose their needles in the fall, which is atypical for coniferous trees.

They produce small, cylindrical cones that contain seeds but do not typically bear red berries. The clue might be using a broader or less literal interpretation of "red berries," possibly referring to the color of the cones or the tree's overall appearance in certain conditions. In some cases, clues in crosswords can be slightly misleading or use creative language to fit the puzzle's constraints.

The crossword clue "Coniferous trees with red berries" with the answer "JUNIPER" refers to a type of coniferous shrub or small tree known for its distinctive red or purple berries. Junipers are evergreen and produce needle-like or scale-like leaves.

Unlike many conifers that have cones, junipers produce fleshy, berry-like cones that can be red, blue, or purple. These berries are often used in cooking, particularly in flavoring gin, and have a unique appearance that fits the clue's description. The clue highlights the juniper's characteristic red berries, making it a suitable answer for the crossword puzzle.

The crossword clue "Coniferous trees with red berries" with the answer "HOLLY" refers to a type of evergreen shrub or tree known for its glossy, spiky leaves and bright red berries.

While holly is not a conifer in the strictest botanical sense (since conifers are typically needle-leaved trees like pines and spruces), holly is often included in crossword puzzles due to its evergreen nature and distinctive red berries. Holly's berries provide a striking contrast against its dark green leaves, especially around the winter holiday season, making it a recognizable and fitting answer for the clue.