Pacific Madrone
From marinelife1011
Pacific Madrone
| Arbutus Menziesii | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Class: | Malacostraca |
| Order: | Ericales |
| Family: | Ericaceae |
| Genus: | Arbutus |
| Species: | Arbutus Menziesii |
| Binomial name | |
| A. Menziesii |
|
Physical Description
The Pacific Madrone is a broad-leaf, evergreen tree. Rich orange and red bark that peels away on the mature wood, leaving a green, smooth tree. Leaves brown, after fall detach from branches. ) Can reach 75 feet high and 5-8 ft in width of trunk. Litter= peeling bark, leaves, berries, and flowers (organic matter for soil)
Habitat
The madrone grips to rocky ledges and dry bluffs along Puget Sound. The madrone is highly reliant on fungal filaments in soil. Their roots spread widely and hold the soil in place from heavy rain and erosion. Transplanting is a bad idea. Southwest facing and sunny spot would be ideal for the tree. Loves dry and coastal zones (Alaska to California) Drought tolerant and fast growing.
Misc. Facts
Bees are highly attracted to madrone trees. Provides nesting for a wide range of birds and insects. Also the branches that arch over beaches and shallow waters provide shade for fish.
