Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii): Pacific Northwest Giant

Douglas fir is a massive conifer native to western North America, one of the world's most important timber trees and a classic Christmas tree.

Botanical Profile

Description and Features

This evergreen tree grows 200–300 feet in the wild (70–100 feet in cultivation) with a pyramidal crown. Needles are flat, soft, green above with two white bands below, spirally arranged but twisted to appear two-ranked. Cones are distinctive, with three-pointed bracts protruding from each scale (like mouse tails). Bark is thick, corky, deeply furrowed.

Cultivation and Uses

Douglas fir prefers full sun, moist, well-drained, acidic soil. It is a major timber species for construction, plywood, and paper. Widely grown as a Christmas tree. In landscapes, it needs space and cool, humid conditions.

Varieties

Two varieties: coast Douglas fir (var. menziesii) and Rocky Mountain Douglas fir (var. glauca).