Most evergreen trees tend to be conifers, like the Douglas Fir and the Western Red Cedar. They keep their small, needle-like leaves all year round. Trees with broader leaves, like a Big Leaf Maple, are known for losing their leaves in the fall to conserve energy when there is less sunlight. We often use the term deciduous to describe trees that drop their leaves. The broad-leafed Pacific Madrona (Arbutus menziesii) is an exception to this as it is a broad-leaf tree that is also evergreen.

The Pacific Madrona often stands out among other trees in the forest because of its bright red, smooth bark. As the tree grows, the bark peels off, revealing the younger green bark underneath. This also helps stop any fungus or parasites that might be growing on the tree. The name Madrona comes from Spanish madroño, meaning strawberry tree, because the berries of the Madrona and it’s Mediterranean relative look a bit like strawberries. The berries are not often eaten by people but are a great food source for many birds.

Madronas are also known for their curvy branches. As you look up at a Madrona, you may even see that the main trunk is growing in an odd direction. They grow in the direction that will get them the most sun. It is a great way to survive in a forest full of big conifers.

Next time you find a Madrona, try touching the trunk. You may notice that is feels a little cooler than the other trees. Even though Madronas are the same temperature than other trees, they feel colder because of their thin bark.

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