Douglas fir
You have a Douglas-fir.
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.
Key Path Summary:
- Leaves are needlelike, at least four times longer than wide.
- Needles occur singly, not in clusters.
- Buds are elongated and have sharp, pointed tips.
The 15 Species
All 15 species grown commercially as holiday trees in the United States and Canada are included in the key. Select a species below to see photos and learn more.
