Pacific Madrone

Botanical Name: Arbutus menziesii

Common Name: Pacific Madrone

Native to NW America and introduced to Britain in 1795 by Archibald Menzies in 1813, hence it's name. It has distinctive peeling bark ranging from reddish brown to green, grey and cracked at the base. Bell shaped white flowers appear in late spring followed by orange berries.

Commonly known as the Pacific madrone or madrona, is a distinctive tree native to the western coastal regions of North America. Here's an overview of its origins and history:

Origins
  • Pacific madrone is native to the west coast of North America, ranging from southern British Columbia in Canada, through Washington, Oregon, and California in the United States.
Historical and Cultural Significance
  • Indigenous peoples in the region, such as the Coast Salish and Pomo tribes, historically used various parts of the Pacific madrone for tools, baskets, and medicinal purposes.
  • The tree holds cultural significance in Native American traditions, often associated with spirituality and used in ceremonies.
Ecological Role
  • Pacific madrone plays a crucial ecological role in its native habitat, contributing to the biodiversity of coastal ecosystems.
  • Its red berries are a food source for various wildlife, including birds and mammals.
Aesthetic and Landscape Use
  • The Pacific madrone is appreciated for its unique and picturesque appearance, characterized by smooth, peeling bark revealing a colorful underlayer, and evergreen, leathery leaves.
  • In landscaping, it is sometimes used for ornamental purposes, although it can be challenging to transplant.
Challenges
  • Pacific madrone faces some challenges, including susceptibility to a soilborne pathogen (Phytophthora), which can cause root rot.

The Pacific madrone's history is deeply intertwined with the ecological and cultural landscape of the western coast of North America, making it a notable and valued tree in the region.

Map

Please see the map below for tree locations and routes around the park. Click to enlarge the map. 

Map of Trees

20690