Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Evergreen, Coniferous, Softwood
Plant Family
Pinaceae
Tree Category
Forest Tree, Timber Tree, Conifer
Variety / Cultivar
Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii (Coast Douglas-fir)
Hardiness Zones
4 - 6 (Interior variety); 7 - 8 (Coast variety)
About This Tree
A massive, long-lived conifer with a straight trunk and a narrowly pyramidal crown that becomes flat-topped or irregular with age. It is one of the tallest trees in the world, often reaching significant heights in old-growth forests.
Leaf Characteristics
Flat, needle-like leaves (2-4 cm long) arranged spirally around the twig but appearing two-ranked. They are soft to the touch, dark green to blue-green above with two white stomatal bands underneath, and have a citrus-like scent when crushed.
Bark Characteristics
On young trees, bark is smooth, gray, and has resin blisters. Mature bark (as seen in the image) is very thick, corky, and deeply furrowed into dark brown to grayish-black ridges with a reddish-brown interior visible in crevices.
Growing Information
Origin Region
North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest from British Columbia to central California
Growing Season
Year-round evergreen growth; new needle flush and cone development typically occur in spring (April-May)
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral soils. Established trees are moderately drought-tolerant but thrive in humid climates.
Mature Size
70-250 feet tall with a 20-50 foot spread; growth rate is moderate to fast (2-4 feet per year in youth); can live over 500-1,000 years.
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for timber (lumber and plywood) due to its strength and straight grain. Features unique cones with three-pointed 'mouse-tail' bracts protruding from the scales. Known for being the most popular Christmas tree species.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical habitat and food for diverse wildlife; seeds are eaten by Douglas squirrels, crossbills, and siskins. Foliage is browsed by deer and elk. Large trees provide nesting sites for Northern Spotted Owls and Bald Eagles.