Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
The Douglas Fir is among the tallest and most important timber trees in North America. Though not a true fir, it dominates western forests and supports countless wildlife species.
Description
Douglas Firs are characterized by thick bark, soft flat needles, and cones with distinctive three-pointed bracts that resemble tiny mouse tails.
Douglas Firs can be identified by their:
- Growth pattern: Tall, straight trunks with dense crowns in young trees, open crowns with age.
- Needles: Single, soft, and flat with rounded tips.
- Cones: 2–4 inches long with three-lobed bracts.
Range
Found from British Columbia to California and inland to the Rocky Mountains.
They dominate Pacific Northwest forests and are planted widely for timber.
Bark
- Thick, furrowed, and fire-resistant on mature trees.
The “mouse tail” bracts are a hallmark of Douglas Fir cones.
Leaves
- Flat, spirally arranged needles, soft to the touch and bright green on new growth.
Fruit
- Cones: Cylindrical, dangling downward, with prominent bracts extending beyond each scale.
Habitat
Douglas Firs thrive in:
- Moist, well-drained soils
- Cool temperate climates
- Mixed conifer forests
Massive trunks and dense shade typical of Pacific Northwest forests.
Deeply furrowed bark offers protection from low-intensity fires.