Oregon's Most Abundant Tree: The Douglas-fir

The signature tree of Oregon is the **Douglas-fir (*Pseudotsuga menziesii*)** — not a true fir, but a unique genus.

Why It Dominates

• Range: Dominates western Oregon (Coast Range, Cascades, Willamette Valley foothills).
• Adaptability: Tolerates wet winters, dry summers, varied soils, moderate shade.
• Growth: Fast, tall (up to 100 m / 330 ft — 2nd tallest tree species), long-lived (500–1,000+ years).
• Regeneration: Prolific seeder after fire/disturbance; thrives in clearcuts.

Economic & Ecological Importance

• Timber: #1 US lumber source. Strong, stiff, versatile — framing, plywood, beams, pulp.
• Habitat: Old-growth stands support spotted owls, marbled murrelets, red tree voles, diverse epiphytes.
• Carbon: Massive sequestration.
• State Symbol: Oregon state tree (1939).

Other Common Oregon Trees

• Western Hemlock, Western Redcedar, Ponderosa Pine (east side), Bigleaf Maple, Red Alder, Oregon White Oak.

The Douglas-fir defines Oregon's landscapes, economy, and identity.