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EXPLORE > PLANTS > ANGIOSPERMS
Arbutus menziesii
One of the most recognizable trees in Oregon, the madrone is distinguished by its deep red-orange bark and waxy green leaves. Mature trees will shed the outer layers of their bark in curly, paper like sheets. The newly exposed bark underneath is generally greenish-gray but will darken to red over time. Madrones will grow over 100 feet (30.48 m) in height.
During the spring, the Pacific madrone will produce bell-shaped flowers and thick clusters of red berries which are covered with small hooks. These fruit will latch onto the fur of passing animals and thus the madrone seeds will "migrate" to other areas, assuring the spread of the species. The berries were used as a food source and the bark could be brewed as a medicinal tea by local Native Americans. A variety of animals also rely on the berries for sustenance. Various birds, raccoons, mule deer and black bears are all known to feed on them.
Range and Habitat
The Pacific madrone can be found along the west coast of North America from British Columbia to California. The tree occupies a narrow strip of land directly adjacent to the ocean. In Oregon, they can be found throughout the Coast Range Mountains, often in close proximity to Douglas-fir.
Conservation Status
Habitat destruction has greatly reduced the range of the Pacific madrone and continues to threaten the species.
Related Features: Douglas-fir-Madrone Woodlands
Arbutus menziesii
One of the most recognizable trees in Oregon, the madrone is distinguished by its deep red-orange bark and waxy green leaves. Mature trees will shed the outer layers of their bark in curly, paper like sheets. The newly exposed bark underneath is generally greenish-gray but will darken to red over time. Madrones will grow over 100 feet (30.48 m) in height.
During the spring, the Pacific madrone will produce bell-shaped flowers and thick clusters of red berries which are covered with small hooks. These fruit will latch onto the fur of passing animals and thus the madrone seeds will "migrate" to other areas, assuring the spread of the species. The berries were used as a food source and the bark could be brewed as a medicinal tea by local Native Americans. A variety of animals also rely on the berries for sustenance. Various birds, raccoons, mule deer and black bears are all known to feed on them.
Range and Habitat
The Pacific madrone can be found along the west coast of North America from British Columbia to California. The tree occupies a narrow strip of land directly adjacent to the ocean. In Oregon, they can be found throughout the Coast Range Mountains, often in close proximity to Douglas-fir.
Conservation Status
Habitat destruction has greatly reduced the range of the Pacific madrone and continues to threaten the species.
Related Features: Douglas-fir-Madrone Woodlands
