Answer:
Six letters do my name compound; among the aged oft I'm found; The shepherd also by the brook hears me when Leaning on his crook; but in the middle me divide and take the half on either side each backward read a liquor tell ev'ry gay toper knows it well.
I have fangs and enjoy piecing holes with a single bite.
I am wood that is neither hard straight or crooked
I am higher than the king
I have palms but not on hands I offer foods from distant lands When at my peak you'll see me smoke I'm famous for my friendly folk My flowers grow and yet they lay There's fire where a man will play.
I'm the source of all emotion but I'm caged in a white prison.