Taxanes
These medicines are active in the M-Phase. In the nucleus of the dividing cell they bind to the microtubules and stop reproduction. Scientists call these cytoskeletal disruptors or microtubule-targeting agents. The name taxane comes from taxus, which is a genus of tree (the yew trees). Three taxanes are approved in the US for cancer treatment.
In addition to taxanes, other natural substances used in chemotherapy include trabectedin and the vinca alkaloids.
Paclitaxel
Brand/Trade Names: Taxol, Abraxane
Formula: C47H51NO14
Mechanism: Mitotic Inhibitor
Class: Taxane
Administration: Intraveneous
Notes: First discovered in the bark of the Pacific Yew tree. Now made by biotechnology. One of the most famous chemo drugs. Often paired with other medicines as part of combination chemotherapy. First approved by the FDA in 1992. Used in treatment of breast, ovarian, lung, bladder, prostate, melanoma, esophageal cancers. More on this medicine.

Paclitaxel molecule, from National Cancer Institute
Docetaxel
Brand/Trade Names: Taxotere
Formula: C43H53NO14
Mechanism: Mitotic Inhibitor
Class: Taxane
Administration: Intraveneous
Notes: Similar to paclitaxel. First approved by the FDA in 1996. Used in treatment of breast, prostate, stomach cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer.
Cabazitaxel
Brand/Trade Names: Jevtana
Formula: C45H57NO14
Mechanism: Anti-microtubule agent
Class: Taxane
Administration: Intravenous
Notes: Approved by the FDA in 2010. Used in treatment of prostate cancer.