Madrone (Arbutus)

• Our Northwest species is famous for peeling, reddish bark.
• Leaves are persistent, simple and alternate. Generally oblong in shape with either smooth or serrated edges.
• Small, white, bell-shaped flowers in clusters.
• Fruits resemble small oranges. A favorite of many species of birds.

The madrone genus contains about 20 species of trees and shrubs on a worldwide basis. Three are native to North America and only one (Pacific madrone) occurs in the Pacific Northwest. Although peeling bark is the most distinctive feature of Oregon's species, not all species of madrone peel.

For more information on the cherries and plums native to the Pacific Northwest, go to the species page or see "Trees to Know in Oregon".