Pseudotsuga menziesii
Douglas-fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii is an evergreen conifer species native to coastal regions in western North America, from west-central British Columbia south through central California. Douglas-fir can grow 200 to 250 feet or more in height: The largest living specimen, dubbed the "Doerner fir," is 326 feet tall and is located in Coos County, Oregon. Douglas-firs are long-lived—some specimens are estimated to be more than 1,000 years old. Douglas-fir has been reclassified several times due to its similarities with other conifers. Despite its common name, it is not a true fir and was at various times classified in genus Pinus, Picea, Abies, Tsuga, and Sequoia before finally landing in the new genus Pseudotsuga.
Identifying Characteristics:
- Leaves are needlelike, at least four times longer than wide.
- Needles occur singly, not in clusters.
- Buds are elongated and have sharp, pointed tips.
