Coniferous Trees
Name of Tree
- (Order Family Genus species); Native Area
Description - Atlas Cedar (Coniferales Pinaceae Cedrus atlantica, formerly C. libani spp. atlantica); North Africa
The Atlas cedar is native to the Atlas Mountains where it can be found at elevations of 1,000 to 2,500 metres (3,281 to 8202 ft). The Atlas Mountains include a system of ranges and plateaus in northwest Africa extending from southwest Morocco to northern Tunisia between the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea and rising to 4,167.8 m (13,665 ft). The Atlas cedar is one of four recognized species of true cedars. The other three are Cyprus cedar (C. brevifolia), Cedar of Lebanon (C. libani) and Deodar cedar (C.deodara). They are very similar to each other. True cedars are very different from the false cedars native to the Pacific Northwest. True cedars have dense clusters of evergreen needles that do not fall off in the autumn. They also have egg-shaped cones with thin scales that fall apart when mature (similar to true firs). The cones are about 3 inches (7.6 cm) long and green during the developing stage but turn brown when mature. When ripe, they shatter to release papery winged seeds. The Atlas cedar is relatively rare since most people prefer to plant the Glauca variety, which has silvery blue needles or the Aurea, which has yellowish needles. Very old trees tend to break up branch by branch each winter and become unsightly. Therefore, they do require careful pruning of all branches, except the central leader. The Atlas cedar is not particularly cold hardy, but does fairly well in marginal climates as the Pacific Northwest. Its heavy, aromatic wood is used for construction and cabinetmaking. In aromatherapy, the Atlas cedar provides a warm, woody, balsamic fragrance that is said to help calm and soothe away nervous tension. - Austrian Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus nigra); Eastern and Southern Europe
This evergreen is native to an area that expands from western Europe to Asia Minor. It is named after the central European country of Austria, but it has been widely planted in North America because of its handsome looks and its ability to adapt to urban conditions. - Chinese Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus tabulaeformis); China
This evergreen is native to China, where it has long been used to make furniture and an herbal medicine; but it was also used as a reforestation species. In 2001, an insect wiped out more than six million trees in several provinces of China. Studies completed on the tree in British Columbia have shown that its longevity increases with the latitude, but decreases with colder temperatures. It has, however, adapted fairly well in the temperate areas of this Canadian province. - Coastal Redwood (Coniferales Taxodiaceae Sequoia sempervirens); Southwestern North America
The coastal redwoods are found along the coast of North America. They grow best in foggy areas because that is where they obtain much of the moisture they require. They also seem to do well at levels below 2,000 feet in elevation and in areas of heavy winter rains with moderate temperatures. They are the tallest of the worlds living things, often reaching more than 360 feet. If allowed, they have a lifespan of 600 to 1,200 years, with some reaching more than 2,000 years. An excellent site that gives more information about the tree is here. - Colorado Spruce (Coniferales Pinaceae Picea pungens); Western North America
Native to the Rocky Mountain region of North America, this evergreen is a popular ornamental because of its bluish-silver needles. Many reach heights of at least 50 feet (15.24 meters), although trees in the wild are much taller. - Dahurian Larch (Coniferales Pinaceae Larix gmelini); Europe
Native to Russia, this larch can also be found in parts of China and Korea. The larch tree is unusual for a conifer because it loses its leaves in the fall. Before they drop off, they can turn a spectacular yellow, and are often one of the last trees to turn colour. The larches are also noted for their medicinal value. - Dawn Redwood (Coniferales Taxodiaceae Metasequoia glyptostruboides); China
Thought to be extinct, a small grove of this primitive tree was discovered in Manchuria in the late 1800s. Originally thought to be a sequoia (redwood), the dawn redwood proved to be a different species since it loses its needles in the fall. - Deodar Cedar (Coniferales Pinaceae Cedrus deodara); Himalayas The Deodar cedar is one of four true cedars (see Atlas cedar). It is also known as the Himalayan cedar or Indian cedar because it is native to those areas, growing at elevations of 3,500 to 12,000 ft (1,067 to 3,658 m) above sea level. In the Himalayas, the Deodar cedars range extended from Tibet to Afghanistan as well as the higher altitudes of India. The Deodar was an important timber tree in India, but has since been logged out. Because the wood was so strong, entire forests were cut down when the British built railroads across India, using the wood for everything from railroad ties and furniture to bridges and firewood. If left alone, the tree has the capacity to live for 1,000 years. Typically, as the tree ages, the lower branches bend gracefully downward and then up again. Its needles are the longest of any cedar. Essential oils extracted from the Deodar have been used in Asia as an antiseptic and to treat tuberculosis. In India, an oleoresin is used for skin ulcers and diseases. Also in India, a decoction made from wood bits was used as a diuretic and carminative, as well as to treat fevers flatulence, pulmonary and urinary disorders, rheumatism, piles, gravels in kidney, and an antidote for snake bites and scorpion stings. The needles contain vitamin C as well as antiseptic properties.
- Douglas Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Pseudotsuga menziesii); Western North America
The Douglas fir is not a true fir but rather a false hemlock. It has been a toxonomic nightmare to fit it into one genus. Consequently, its name has changed several times, with scientists finally settling on its present scientific name. Its common name was designated for the Scottish botanist, David Douglas, who who introduced many of British Columbias native conifers into Europe. - Eastern Hemlock (Coniferales Pinaceae Tsuga canadensis); Eastern North America
The eastern hemlock grows only in the eastern part of North America. It may take 250 to 300 years to reach maturity and may live for more than 800 years. From this information, we can assume the ones in Green Timbers Arboretum have not yet reached maturity! - Eastern White Cedar (Coniferales Cupressaceae Thuja occidentalis); Eastern North America
Cedar is thought to have been used in the Indian remedy that saved the Canadian explorer, Jacques Cartier, and his crew from scurvy . Because of its light weight and resistance to decay, it was often made into canoes and boats. The oil extracted from the boughs was used for medicines and perfumes. - Eastern White Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus strobus); Eastern North America
One of the largest of the pine trees, this one can grow to more than 100 feet (30.48 meters) with a straight truck up to 4 feet (1.22 meters)in width. Because this tree has long been valued by the softwood lumber industry, its natural population is much depleted. - English Yew (Taxales Taxaceae Taxus baccata); Europe
This evergreen is not a true conifer because its seeds are not found in the cones. Rather, in the summer, they develop green cone-like structures that become a fleshy, bright red, berry-like fruit in the fall. Green seeds can then be seen through the opening in the top. All parts of this tree are considered to be poisonous, but native tribes have known how to use it for various medicinal purposes. - European Larch (Coniferales Pinaceae Larix decidua); Europe
The European larch is indigenous to the Alps and from the Sudenten Mountains to the Carpathians and the Vistula Valley in Poland. Although its needle-like leaves make it appear as an evergreen, the tree is really a deciduous conifer. The leaves are also soft and turn yellow before dropping off in the fall. - Giant Sequoia (Coniferales Taxodiaceae Sequoiadendron giganteum); Southwestern North America
This tree is one of the oldest and largest life forms on Earth. There are some in California estimated to be over 3,000 years old. Their full height often exceeds 300 feet (91.44 meters). Today, it is illegal to cut them down; but, in the early days of logging, many such trees were cut and wasted. There are only about 36,000 acres (14,569 hectares) of giant sequoias left in the entire world. - Ginkgo (Gingkoales Ginkgoaceae Gingko biloba); China
Also known as the Maidenhair tree, the ginkgo has been cultivated for centuries in the temple gardens of China and Japan. It was reportedly introduced to North America in the late 1700s. Now a common ornamental tree, it is well-known to herbalists for its memory enhancing qualities. The ginkgo tree does not appear to have any natural fungal or insect enemies, and has been considered resistant to smoke and drought likely another reason it has survived for the estimated 200 million years. - Golden Atlas Cedar (Coniferales Pinaceae Cedrus atlantica aurea); Northwestern Africa
This tree is actually native to the mountains of the southern and southeastern Mediterranean area and the western Himalayas. The Golden cedar is almost identical to the Blue Atlas Cedar except that its needles have a striking golden color, especially when they are exposed to bright sunlight. This can be quite a sight in winter. This tree can take ten years to reach a height of 8 feet (2.44 meters). - Grand Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies grandis); Western North America
It is the largest of the fir trees, often reaching heights of 300 feet (91.44 meters). It is found mainly in forests near the ocean since it requires high atmospheric humidity. The grand fir often grows in association with many other tree species, including the Douglas fir. It is easily distinguished from other Pacific Northwest firs by its sprays of lustrous needles in two distinct rows. When crushed, these needles release an odour of citronella or oranges. - Incense Cedar (Coniferales Cupressaceae Libocedrus decurrens); Western North America
The incense cedar ranges from southern British Columbia into northern Mexico. Although not a true cedar, it is the one used most often in making cedar chests and pencils. The male cones are bright yellow and profuse at the end of the branches in late winter. The female cones resemble an urn or a duckbill. The tree has about a 500-year lifespan and is usually found in mixed coniferous forests. Although stands of young trees are killed by fire, the very thick bark protects mature trees. - Irish Juniper (Coniferales Cupressaceae Juniperus communis stricta); United Kingdom
This small, bushy, evergreen tree produces cones that look like bluish-black berries with a whitish bloom. Its seeds are dispersed by birds. - Irish Yew (Taxales Taxaceae Taxus baccata fastigiata); Ireland
The Irish yew developed as a “sport” from a normal female common yew. It was found about 1760 in the mountains above Florence Court, County Fermanagh, in Northern Ireland. It is a slow-growing tree with needle-like leaves. The cones look like reddish berries, and contain poisonous seeds. The Latin name Taxus is the ancient word for yew. - Japanese Cryptomeria (Coniferales Taxodiaceae Cryptomeria japonica); China and Japan
Not a true cedar, this tree is much loved in Japan as an ornamental and as a bonsai. Although it is not well-suited to North America, it does do well in the southeastern part of the US. It is a slow to medium growing tree, taking about 20 years to reach a height of 20 feet (6.1 meters). If left alone undisturbed, some have been known to reach heights of 125 feet (38.1 meters). There are some specimens in Japan that are over 650 years old. - Japanese Hybrid Larch (Coniferales Pinaceae Larix leptolepis x decidua); Japan
This particular species seems to be quite rare. There are hybrid larches and Japanese larches, but little information is available out this particular combination. The hybrid larch resulted when a conifer, which first grew in Scotland, was crossed with a Japanese larch and a European larch. What happened to the Japanese hybrid larch after that is unknown. - Japanese Larch (Coniferales Pinaceae Larix kaempferi); Japan
The Japanese larch is a pine that can grow to more than 70 feet (21.34 meters) in height with a spread of about 35 feet (10.67 meters). Although the Japanese beetle can be a problem for many trees, the Japanese larch usually is left untouched; but it does have its other pests, however. It can grow to be a truly handsome tree in ideal settings, making quite a statement of grace combined with strength. - Korean Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus koraiensis); Japan and Korea
The Korean Pine is native to Korea, as well as to the Amur region of China and to Japan. It can reach heights of 100 feet (30.48 meters), but does not start producing the nuts until after seven years of age. The Korean pine is a critical species for the Siberian tiger population since the nuts are a vital food source for elk, deer, and boar, which are the tigers main food sources. This particular pine is but one of many that supply edible seeds or pine nuts for both animals and humans. The Korean pine seed contains 70.3% oil, 14.8% protein, an abundance of vitamins A and E, and some essential fatty acids (oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic). (This is a good site that describes how vital the Korean pine is to the endangered Siberian tiger. This is another good site which gives the nutritional aspects of all pine nuts) - Lawson False Cypress (Coniferales Cupressaceae Chamaecyparis lawsoniana); Western North America
This species is also known as the white or Oregon cedar and ginger pine. However, the currently accepted scientific common name is Port Orford cedar. Although over 200 cultivars have been developed, there are no recognized subspecies. Making it even more rare is its overexploitation to meet demands for its highly prized aromatic wood. The vast majority of its native range have been logged, and stumps measuring more than 18 feet (5.49 meters) in diameter have been found with ages exceeding 560 years. - Lodgepole Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus contorta latifolia); Western North America
The lodgepole pine is the only conifer that is native in both Alaska and Mexico. It received its name as a result of its use by Native Americans, who found that the tall, slender trunks were ideal for their conical tents or teepees. They also used the inner bark for such things a food and medicine. Another distinguishing feature is the cones, which are strongly twisted and held closely together by a resin bond. To open so that the seeds can disperse, the cones need to be exposed to intense heat from such things as a fire or from hot, long-term, direct sunlight. Otherwise, the cones can stay on the branches for many years. The pine can have a lifespan of more than 200 years. - Macedonian Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus peuce); Balkans
The Macedonian pine is on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) Red list of endangered species. It is a slow-growing tree that can reach 100 feet (30.48 meters) or more. Almost all of those in Bulgaria are now protected in National Parks. - Needle Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies holophylia); Southeast Asia
Native to China and Korea, the needle fir, also known as the Manchurian fir, appears to thrive in hot and humid climates when other pines cannot. Reaching upwards of 100 feet (30.48 meters), this tree grows on an average of 12-18 inches (30-46 cm) per year. - Noble Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies procera); Western North America
The noble fir was named by the Scottish botanical explorer David Douglas (1798-1834). Its original Latin name was Abies nobilis, but had to be changed when it was discovered another tree already had been given this name. However, the common name has persisted because of its magnificent proportions and large, heavy cones. It is the tallest true fir and in the wild, growing to over 200 feet (61 meters) in height. The needles are similar to those of a spruce tree, over 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, with a bluish-green, silver tinge. Often the needles point upward to expose the lower surface. It has long been the most favored type of tree for the Christmas season. - Norway Spruce (Coniferales Pinaceae Picea abies); Central and Northern Europe
The Norway spruce is one of the most important species on the European continent. It is one of the fastest growing, often reaching heights of more than 200 feet (61 meters). However, in the western hemisphere, it seldom reaches more than 130 feet (39.62 meters). Although sometimes confused with true firs (Abies), spruces most often have several differences: the needles are rectangular rather than flat; the cones hang down rather than stand erect on the stem; and, the cones fall from the tree after seeds are disseminated, whereas fir cones disintegrate. In addition, the cones are the largest of any spruce species, reaching a length of up to 7 inches (17.8 cm). Male and female flowers are found on the same tree and are produced in late spring. - Oriental Arbor-Vitae (Coniferales Cupressaceae Thuja orientalis); China and Korea
This cypress tree is regarded as an ornimental conifer with its low branching habit providing good ground cover for a variety of small animals. The plants belonging to this species are small, slow-growing, conical or ovoid trees or shrubs. In China, some specimens have lived more than 1000 years and have long been used as a source of medicines. - Oriental Spruce (Coniferales Pinaceae Picea orientalis); Turkey and Caucasus
Not as hardy as the Norway spruce, the Oriental spruce does require sheltered location and can suffer injury from severe winters. It is one of the last spruces to break bud in the spring. The needles are very short and closely packed all around the twigs. Although it can reach heights of 120 feet (36.6 meters), cultivated trees usually grow to half that. Male flowers appear in the spring and are a bright brick red, appearing in spring. - Pacific Silver Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies amabilis); Western North America
The natural range of this tree is from the southern tip of Alaska to the northern tip of California. It prefers cool, wet regions, especially the coastal fog belt and interior mountain valleys, as well as coniferous forests. The common name refers to the silvery lower surface of the foliage. The word “Pacific” is added to avoid confusion with another silver fir native to Europe. David Douglas (1798-1834), the Scottish botanical explorer and discoverer of this species, named it amabilis, meaning “lovely.” Although beautiful when young, this tree does not attain a pleasing shape as it grows older much like humans. - Ponderosa Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus ponderosa); Western North America
The ponderosa pine was so named because of its ponderous size and its longevity of up to 500 years. It is the only native British Columbia pine with bundles of three needles. The bark and cones have long been used for quick, hot fires. Wolf lichen grows on the trunks and dead branches. Lichens are not mosses, but are a combination of at least two organisms and help trees by absorbing chemicals in the air. Although most lichens can be used for food, wolf lichen is poisonous and used in Russia to kill wolves. - Port Orford Cedar (Cupressaceae Chamaecyparis lawsonia x glauca); SW Oregon and NW California The Port Orford cedar is native to a 200-mile stretch of coastal mountains found mainly in southern Oregon, but stretching into northern California and named after a town in southwest Oregon. It was first discovered in 1851 and seedlings sent back to Scotland in 1854 to the Lawson family who cultivated an extensive nursery of trees, forming some 150 named varieties of conifers. Consequently, it soon acquired the name of the blue Lawson or Lawson cypress. These true seeds immediately produced a variation named Erecta viridis, which have been producing variations ever since to the point where the Port Orford cedar is considered the most variable conifer in the world with more than 250 named forms. The Port Orford cedar is one of the white-cedars in a group of false-cypresses; 3 native to the US and 4 from Japan and Taiwan. The record tree stands in Siskiyou, Oregon. It is about 219 feet high with a diameter of twelve feet and may be 700 years old. The wood is a yellowish white, sometimes tinged with red and has a bitter ginger taste. This unique scent is the result of a volatile oil, which can be overpowering and continued exposure to this aroma is known to cause kidney problems. The wood has been in great demand and used for anything from the Hawaiian Presidential Palace to Japanese Buddhist temples, California gold mine timbers, and building construction. It was also used for such high quality boats as Sir Thomas Liptons Shamrock series of 100 (30.5 m) racing sailboats, built as challengers for the Americas Cup just prior to World War I. In China and Japan, the wood was in great demand for coffins, and for temple construction because of its close relationship to Hinoki cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa) which is thought to have a spiritual nature. In its native habitat, the Port Orford cedar is found along streams, bogs, and other wet areas in most of its range. It is an important component of these riparian zones as the long lasting wood provides persistent structure for fish, amphibians, and other aquatic organisms.
- Red Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus resinosa); Eastern North America
This pine received its common name from the fact that its young scaly bark is a distinct orangey-red. As it matures, this fades to a reddish-brown. Its Latin name points to its resin-retaining properties in both the winter buds and the wood. Songbirds, chipmunks, and other small animals feed on the seeds. The red pine is also a popular choice for reforestation since it grows rapidly, especially after a fire. - Redwood (Coniferales Cupressaceae Sequoia sempervirens); Pacific Coast of North America
A member of the Cypress family that contains only this one species, the name sequoia is from the Cherokee Indian chief Sequoyah while sempervirens is the Latin word for always green. Although Sequoia sempervirens have been cultivated elsewhere, it grows best in only one place in the world; a 450-mile (724-km) strip along the Pacific Coast of North America, beginning in southern Oregon and ending just south of Monterey, California. The oldest verified redwood tree is at least 2,200 years of age, but foresters believe that some may be much older. The coastal redwoods are the tallest living species on Earth, often reaching heights of 300-350 feet (91-107 m) and diameters of 16-18 feet (4.9-5.5 m). Today, there are only 15 known living trees more than 110 m (361 feet) tall and are now growing along the California coast. Redwoods are a hydrostatic marvel. They can siphon water upward to great heights, fighting gravity and friction. During the dry summers, they can create their own rain by condensing heavy fog into drenching showers that provide welcome moisture to the roots below. In addition, scientists believe that redwoods take in much of their water directly from the air, through their needles and through canopy roots which the trees sprout on their branches. Moisture from fog is thought to provide 30% to 40% of a redwood’s water supply. - Sawara False Cypress (Coniferales Cupressaceae Chamaecyparis pisifera); Japan
Native to southern Japan and Taiwan, this tree is also known as the Japanese false cypress. In Kiso, Japan, it is considered to be one of the five sacred trees. It grows very slowly in a pot, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) a year; but in the wild, can reach a height of over 100 feet (30.48 meters). - Scots Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus sylvestris); Europe
The Scots pine, or as older literature states, The Scotch Pine, is the most widely distributed conifer in the world. Although over 100 varieties have been described, only three or four are now accepted. It is the only pine native to northern Europe, with a range stretching from beyond the Arctic Circle to eastern Siberia and down into Spain. In the British Isles, it is now native only in Scotland. Because of over-exploitation in other areas, it has had to be re-introduced. The Scots pine usually grows at elevations from sea level to 2,400 metres (8,000 feet), with the elevation generally increasing from north to south. A distinguishing feature is its needles with a blue-green color and long length, making it a popular Christmas tree in North America. In some areas, it is listed as an invasive species. The needles yield a medicinal oil, pitch, tars, resin, and turpentines, obtained from the wood. The Scots pine is excellent for wildlife, attracting lichens, insects, and such birds as the golden eagle, osprey, goshawk, siskin, great spotted woodpecker, great crested tit, and crossbill. In Scotland, the wryneck and capercaille can be found living in some pine woods. Red squirrels are particularly fond of the cones and seeds of the Scots pine. - Shore Pine (Coniferales Pinaceae Pinus contorta contorta); Western North America
The Latin name refers to its twisted and contorted branching habit. The tree produces needles that come in pairs and small, prickly cones. Closely related to the lodgepole pine, the shore pine does have some differences. It is very hardy and can grow in almost any type of soil, but it does prefer boggy conditions, whereas the lodgepole does not. The shore pine grows only to about 50 feet (15.24 meters) or less. Depending on the conditions, it can reach 400 years of age. - Silver Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies alba); Europe
Native to the mountains of southern and central Europe, it is also found in Byelorussia, Asia, and the Caucasus Mountains. It does prefer fresh, moist soils in higher altitudes. It was given its name because it appears to have a silvery color when seen from below. The oldest tree was discovered in 1952 in Germany and estimated to be 411 years old. However, this is rare. - Sitka Spruce (Coniferales Pinaceae Picea sitchensis); Western North America
The Sitka spruce is the tallest conifer in North America, and likely in the world. It commonly grows up to 180 feet (54.86 meters), with diameter.of at least a 3-5 feet (0.9 -1.5 meters) Its estimated lifespan is about 700 to 800 years. The record holder for Canada is a 290-foot (88.39-meter) specimen located on Vancouver Island. The Sitka Spruce occurs along the Pacific coast, from Alaska to the southern US. Because of its high moisture requirements, the Sitka spruce occurs in the fog belt and along inlets and streams and prefers moist, well-drained soils. Some coastal peoples ate the raw inner bark or the raw young shoots as a source of vitamin C, but it can also act as a laxative. - Subalpine Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies lasiocarpa); Western North America
This particular fir thrives just below the timberline in mountain forests of western North America from the Yukon and southern Alaska through to New Mexico. Interestingly, there are no true firs on the Queen Charlotte Islands. The Latin name means hairy-fruited, which refers to their cones. The pollen cones are bluish, but the seed cones are deep purple and grow upright at the top of the crown. Like the cones of the other firs, they disintegrate on the tree, leaving a central spike. Their spire-like crowns are a distinguishing feature. To form new shoots, the lower branches take root while they are weighted down with snow. Both large and small animals depend on this tree for their survival. - Weeping Giant Sequoia (Taxales Taxodiaceae Sequoiadendron giganteum Pendulum); Sierra Nevada Mountains
The Latin name, Sequoiadendron, is a genus in the Baldcypress family and named in honor of Sequoiah (1770-1843), the son of a British merchant and a Cherokee woman, who became a Cherokee chief and created an alphabet for his people’s language. Dendron is from the Greek word for tree. The Sequoia is an ancient conifer that once shared the landscape with dinosaurs. At one time they were found worldwide; but today, there are only 18 species (in 10 genera) that remain, confined to North America, eastern Asia, and Tasmania. Known as the largest living thing in the world, the young Sequoias (under 1,000 years of age) can reach hundreds of feet in height with a 30-foot trunk diameter. The weeping giant sequoia, often called the Dr. Seuss tree, can grow to ten feet with a three-foot trunk in ten years and forty feet high at maturity. No two ever grow alike. Its gray-green needles form into dense foliage. The bark is reddish-brown and similar to that of the coast redwood. One of the most animate of all trees, the trunk can be straight, but more often twists or leans in one or more directions with no predictable fashion, thus forming a living sculpture. - Western Hemlock (Coniferales Pinaceae Tsuga heterophylia); Western North America
The hemlock received its name from those who recognized the scent of the crushed needles as being similar to a European weed. The western hemlock, however, is not related to poison-hemlock weed which killed Socrates. Its Latin names come from the Japanese word for “tree” and “mother” (tsu-ga) and the Greek word for “different leaves” (heterophylla). The range of this tree extends along the Pacific coast from Alaska to northern California, mainly because it requires much water. Because it has a shallow root system, it is one of the first to suffer damage from wind and forest fires. It regenerates by natural seeding. Seedlings are commonly found on rotten logs or decomposed stumps. One of these trees can reach heights of nearly 200 feet (61meters) and live to be 500 years old. However, the normal lifespan is usually only from 80 to 100 years. - Western Larch (Coniferales Pinaceae Larix occidentalis); Western North America
Also known as a tamarack, the western larch is the tallest of the larch species, reaching heights in excess of 200 feet (61meters). It has been know to live as long as 1,000 years, but few are allowed to do so anymore. The one disadvantage to their great height is that they can become easy targets for lightning. The larch species also contain an essential sugar which resembles slightly bitter honey in taste, but does have medicinal value. The bark can be quite thick, especially in old-growth where it can be up to 6 inches (15.24 cm) thick. The larch differs from firs and pines in that it sheds its needles in the fall and remains tall and straight throughout the winter, but totally naked. Although the larch requires a good deal of moisture, it rarely grows in fog belts. You can find more information on this excellent site. - Western Red Cedar (Coniferales Cupressaceae Thuja plicata); Western North America
Also know as the giant arbor-vitae (tree of life), the western red cedar is found mainly along the west coast of North America and is the official tree of British Columbia. The red comes from the pinkish-brown heartwood and its characteristic cedar odour. A very large tree, it can reach heights off 200 feet (61meters), with the trunk often spreading out widely at the base. It can live for as much as 1,000 years. The cedar has a large number of cones that bend backwards along the branches. It has a unique resistance to decay and insect damage, with their wood remaining sound for over 100 years. It is this wood that was used mostly by Native Americans for such things as totem poles and dugout canoes. In fact, one of these canoes is on display at the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Ottawa. - White Fir (Coniferales Pinaceae Abies concolor); Western North America
The native range of the white fir extends from the mountains along the Pacific coast to northern Mexico. It can reach heights of more than 120 feet (36.58 meters). The bluish-green needles curve upwards on the twigs and give off a pleasant citronella scent when crushed. It is the most beautiful of all firs, often used in landscaping and for Christmas trees. - Yellow Cypress (Coniferales Cupressaceae Chamaecyparis nootkatensis); Western North America
The yellow cypress is also known by many other names, including Nootka false-cypress, Alaska-cypress, Sitka-cypress, yellow-cypress, Alaska-cedar, and Alaska yellow-cedar, although the false cypress is not a cedar. The nootka name refers to Nootka Sound on the west side of Vancouver Island, where it was first identified. The bark is typical of the cedar in that it is very resistant to decay and insects and has a distinctive scent. The bark can smell like potato skins.
Deciduous Trees
Name of Tree
- (Order Family Genus species); Native Area
Description - American Chestnut (Fagales Fagaceae Castanea dentata); Southeastern North America
This is a threatened species in both the United States and Canada. Currently, it is a Schedule 2; but it is expected to be upgraded to a Schedule 1 through SARA (the Species At Risk Act). In 1904, an Asian blight was found on American chestnut trees in New York City. This exotic disease was accidentally imported, but quickly spread across the country and all but wiped out the species. The disease starts as a canker which enlarges until it surrounds the whole trunk of the tree. This prevents vascular circulation between the roots and the branches, causing the crown of the tree to die. Most of the American chestnut trees are now on land belonging to such public agencies as conservation authorities. Several of these sites are protected through forestry management agreements which forbid cutting them down. The following is a site which gives the history of its near extinction in North America. - American Elm (Urticales Ulmaceae Ulmus americana pendula); Eastern North America
The American elm used to be one of North Americas most dominant trees until the Dutch elm disease destroyed many of them. The disease is fungal and transmitted by bark beetles and/or by the roots that can graft with adjoining trees. Therefore, isolating these trees from others is the first line of defence. The elm bark beetle spreads the disease by feeding on a diseased tree and, then, moves on to another. The fungus plugs the vascular system of the tree by preventing the flow of water and nutrients, which slowly kills the tree. Young trees, however, are immune to this disease until they reach their reproductive age. The American elm is one of the first trees to flower. Beginning during the warm days in January or February, the floral bud clusters begin to swell until they are fully open by mid-March. Edible fungi, as oyster mushrooms, sometimes grow on the trunks. - Balsam Poplar (Salicales Salicaceae Populus balsamifera x berolinensis; Central and Southern Europe
The balsam poplar can reach a height of 100 feet, with a trunk diameter of six feet. A subspecies is the black cottonwood. The two are sometimes confused with each other. Where their ranges overlap, they are often hybridized. The balsam receives its name from the fragrant resin found in the sticky buds. Bees use this resin as a caulking material in their hives. It also produces a chemical in the young twigs that prevents the snowshoe rabbit from feeding on them. This tree also has a long history of medicinal uses. - Bigleaf Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer macrophyllum); Western North America
The bigleaf maple leaf is the one depicted on the Canadian flag. Both the common and scientific names describe its very large leaves that can measure up to two feet (60 cm) in width and a foot long. The leaves generally have five lobes (sometimes three) and are attached to a long stalk that exudes a milky sap when bruised. The trees can reach heights of over 100 feet and live an average of 250 years. - Bitternut Hickory (Juglandales Juglandaceae Carya cordiformis); Southeastern North America
As the name implies, the nuts from this tree are too bitter for human consumption, but squirrels love them. A member of the Walnut family, it is related to other hickories and walnuts, and reaches a height of 60 feet. As with all hickories, the bitternut also constantly rains depris, making it an unwise choice for urban settings. The most distinctive feature of the bitternut is its sulfur-yellow buds. The bark is the smoothest of the hickories, but still develops a sinewy look that can cause some to identify it mistakenly as an ash. - Black Hawthorn (Rosales Rosaceae Crataegus douglasii); Western North America
The word hawthorn comes from the Anglo-Saxon haguthorn, which means fence with thorns. This proves to be a useful feature for farmers to pen in their livestock and makes an impenetrable home for many birds and small animals. Another feature that lends itself to its name is the small apple-like fruits called haws that come in clusters of yellow, red, or blackish. These fruits are very seedy, but sweet, and perfectly edible. However, they do wither very quickly when ripe. This large shrub can grow to about 20 feet in height. It is often found in forests, but it can grow in the open in pure thickets. - Black Locust (Fagales Fabaceae Robinia pseudacacia); Southeastern North America
The black locust is a shrubby tree belonging to the Legume family. It has paired spines along the branches and can reach heights of 80 feet. It has an aggressive growth pattern and not easily removed once established. Although it produces ample seeds, a thick coating on them hinders consistent germination. The plant typically reproduces by root suckering and stump sprouting. What is worse, any damage to the roots or stems as mowing or chopping them down will stimulate vigorous sprouting. Burning will also stimulate growth spurts. Using herbacides is out since its extensive root system spreads the chemicals over large areas. - Box Elder (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer negundo); Eastern North America
A member of the Maple family, the box elder is similar to poison ivy, but it is no relation nor is it poisonous. It does yield an inferior type of maple syrup that is sometimes referred to as mountain molasses. The scientific name negundo is taken from the native Sanskrit and Bengali word nirgundi, the specific name of the plant Vitex negundo, but given to the box elder since it has similar leaves. - Butternut (Juglandales Juglandaceae Juglans cinerea); Southeastern North America
Also known as a white walnut, the butternut is found mainly in the eastern part of North America from southern New Brunswick into Arkansas and as far west as Ontario down into Minnesota. However, there are smatterings found elsewhere. The butternut has not been a common tree, and its ranges are declining even further. It can reach heights of 60 to 80 feet with a three-foot diameter. It is distinguished from the black walnut by the velvet collars just above scars left by the previous years leaves. Butternut seeds are quite edible, but oily. - Cappadocian Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer cappadocium); Western Asia to the Himalayas
The range of this tree extends from its native area of the Caucasus Mountains through the Himalayas and into China. The leaves have the distinctive five-lobe formation, but vary in that each lobe is broad-based and ends in a fine point. In the fall, the glossy leaves turn to a butter-yellow colour. Another feature is that it suckers from the roots and, in a short period of time, can develop into a thicket. - Cascara (Rhamnales Rhamnaceae Rhamnus purshiana); Western North America
Bark of the cascara, a member of the Buckthorn family, has been used for centuries as a laxative. Its native habitat is usually on the sides and bottoms of canyons from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. This shrubby tree can reach a height of 30 feet. The distinctive bark is thin, smooth, and silver-grey. The leaves are egg-shaped and about five inches long. They turn yellow in the fall; but, in the spring, the young leaves and buds are a coppery colour. Clusters of up to 50 flowers eventually produce blackish purple berries. These berries are edible, but not enjoyable because of the three stoney seeds in each one. - Common Box (Euphorbiales (Buxaceae Buxus sempervirens; Southern Europe and North Africa
The box is a shrubby tree that has traditionally been used for hedges, in formal gardens, and in topiary work (plants that can be shaped in attractive artwork, usually of animals or birds) because of its dense, small-leaved characteristic. In Latin, sempervirens means always green; therefore, the boxs dark green leaves stay the same lustrous green in all seasons. However, new growth is very sensitive to late spring frosts. - Common Horse Chestnut (Sapindales Hippocastanaceae Aesculus hippocastanium); Balkans
Although long thought to be native to the northern and central parts of Asia (Tibet mainly), it is now believed to be indigenous to the mountains of northern Greece, where it occurs wild at 3000 to 4000 ft. above sea-level. Today, the tree is found in many countries of the world, particularly in mountain settings. How it received its name is not definite, but there is some interesting speculation. It is not related to the sweet chestnut; but it may have acquired the similarity because of its nuts, which do bear a good resemblance. The nuts, however, are poisonous. The horse attachment is thought to be the result of the inhabitants of Constantinople who used it to bring relief to short-winded horses and the coughs of cattle. - Douglas Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer glabrum douglasii); Western North America
The Latin word acer means maple tree;and glabrum means smooth, likely describing the hairless leaves and fruits. There are many kinds of maple tree, and most are quite large. However, the Douglas maple is a small tree, growing only to about twenty feet in height. The leaves turn a lovely dark shade of red in the autumn. - Durmast Oak (Fagales Fagaceae Quercus petraea); Southern Europe
Also known as the sessile oak, the durmast differs from the common oak in that its leaves do not have the typical backward-pointing lobes at the base. Also, it is less spreading and shorter. Stalks to the leaf, but none to the acorn, are notable on the durmast, but not on the common oak. The tree grows slowly as a seedling up to about 200 years, but then take off from there, often reaching 150 feet and living to 1000 years or more. - English Oak (Fagales Fagaceae Quercus rubur purpurescens); Europe
The English oak is but one of the more than 500 species of oak and so named because it is a major component of the original forests of England. It was brought to the American colonies in the 17th century. In the wild, it can reach a height of 140 feet with a spread of 80 feet or more. Unfortunately, it is notorious for developing a powdery mildew – the same kind often seen on lilacs and roses – on its leaves late in the summer. Although a cosmetic eyesore, the mildew does not have a long-term impact on the health of the tree. - European Beech (Fagales Fagaceae Fagus sylvatica); Europe
The cultivated European beech is easier to grow than the American beech; and, as a result, it is becoming a popular ornamental tree. An important hardwood, the European beech is slow to leaf out in the spring and dislikes the heat of the summers. Although slow-growing, it can reach a height of 60 feet with a spread of 45 feet. The leaves are a glossy green, and the nuts are edible. - European Hornbeam (Fagales Corylaceae Carpinus betulus); Europe
The European hornbeam is said to be one of the finest landscape trees and often used in urban settings for groupings, hedges, or screens. The dark green elm-like leaves change to yellow in the fall. It is also used medicinally to treat some forms of allergies. It is sometimes called musselwood because the trunk looks like groupings of mussels. - European Linden (Malvales Tiliaceae Tilia x europea); Europe
Although the European linden is also known as the common lime, it is not related to the citrus. The tree commonly grows on limestone cliffs, as well asin damp wooded areas. A natural hybrid between the large-leaved and small-leaved lindens, it can grow to more than 150 feet. All parts of the tree have been used medicinally. - European Mountain Ash (Rosales Rosaceae Sorbus aucuparia); Europe
Native to Europe and western Asia, this tree is a member of the Rose family. Since it is not a true ash (Fraxinus), its name is written as mountainash or mountain-ash. It is a landscape ornamental favorite with bright red berry clusters that appeal to birds long into the winter. The fruit is also edible for humans or made into medicinal remedies. - Fullmoon Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer japonicum); Japan
Although the full moon maple is a very slow-growing ornamental tree and a favorite with bonsai collectors, the tree can reach heights of 25 feet. Its leaves have seven to eleven lobes that can be almost round in some forms and, thus, the reason for its name. The purplish-red flowers turn into reddish winged fruits. In the fall, the leaves turn into spectacular colours that range from a bright red to oranges and yellows. - Hedge Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer campestre); Europe
Although considered to be a small to medium-sized tree and a favourite for bonsai collectors, it can grow to 100 feet. Because of its dense foliage, it is also a favourite for hedges, thus its name. Since maples have distinctly lobed leaves, the hedge maple differs only in that it has three to five lobes with rounded edges instead of points, and the winged seeds are spread-eagled instead of v-shaped. - Japanese Walnut (Juglandales Juglandaceae Juglans ailanthifolia); Japan
The Japanese walnut is similar to the butternut, except that its leaves are much larger and the nuts are round. As with any walnut, since the bark and seeds husks are rich in tannin, a brown dye has long been extracted for a variety of uses. Edible oil is obtained from the seed, but tends to go rancid quickly. The roots of the walnut trees produce toxic substances to many other plant species, preventing their growth. Therefore, few plants grow in the vicinity of walnut trees. - Large-toothed Aspen (Salicales Salicaceae Populus grandidentata; Eastern North America
A member of the Willow family, the large-toothed aspen received its name from the prominent teeth on its leaves. Although a short-lived tree, it does grow rapidly, especially during the first thirty years. Medicinally, all of the Populus species contain varying amounts of salicin and populin, relatives and precursors of aspirin; and all parts of the tree were used for various remedies. - Little-leaf Linden (Malvales Tiliaceae Tilia cordata); Europe
As its name suggests, the tree has smaller leaves than other lindens. The species name cordata means heart-shaped. The tree can reach 70 feet and displays pendulous clusters of greenish-yellow flowers. These fragrant flowers attract honeybees and other insects. After the flowers have finished, the tree bears small nutlets that hang on long stems beneath large, leafy wings. Similar in appearance to the American linden, the little-leaf linden is distinguished only by its smaller leaves, fruits, and flowers. - London Planetree (Hamamelidales Platanaceae Platanus x acerifolia); Central and Southern Europe
The London planetree is a cross between the American sycamore and the Oriental planetree of southeastern Europe and Asia Minor. It is thought that this species resulted from cross-pollination when John Tradescant, gardener to Charles I of England, planted an American sycamore in his personal garden from seed acquired in Virginia in 1637. The common name came as a result of extensive use made of the tree in London, England, and is now thought to be one of the worlds most reliable urban trees because of its remarkable resistance to pollution. The most striking feature is its flaking bark that peels to reveal a lighter coloured bark underneath. Both the bark and the leaves continually drop off, causing annoying litter. - Northern Red Oak (Fagales Fagaceae Quercus rubra); Eastern North America
The northern red oak was named for obvious reasons since it is found only in the northeastern part of the continent, but not in the deep south. The fall leaf colours can be a brilliant red, and the wood tinged a soft reddish color. The tree is fast-growing and can reach 100 feet in height with growth rates of up to two feet per year. The acorns have long been a favourite of animals and Native Americans as a source of protein, fat and starch. Unlike chestnuts and white oak, red oak acorns can be stored for the winter because of their high tannin content. Tannins are removed by three methods: leeching in hot water (crushed acorns) or in streams over long periods of time (whole or cracked acorns), or they were buried in the ground (whole acorns the method used by squirrels!). When acorn caps and the bark were ground together with water containing soluble iron (e.g., water containing rusty nails), galls produced a black suspension which was concentrated into ink. Galls are growths found on the trees as a result of an interaction between insects (mainly wasps) and the oaks. This black liquid was also used to dye fabric because without the addition of iron, the result was a brown dye. - Norway Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer platanoides); Europe
Today, the Norway maple is considered to be an invasive plant in many places in North America. However, its popular very dark, red foliage makes it a desirable landscaping tree; but it easily escapes cultivation to populate forests, fields, and other natural habitats. In Europe it has similar uses as the sugar maple does in North America. The tree can be distinguished from native maples by the milky white sap that oozes out of leaf veins and stalks when broken. The wood is considered to be excellent for making musical instrument soundboards. In fact, the fiddlebacks of the infamous violins built Antonio Stradivarius (1644-1737) are rumoured to be made of Norway maple - Ohio Buckeye (Sapindales Hippocastanaceae Aesculus glabra); Southeastern North America
As its name might suggest, this member of the Horsechestnut family is the state tree of Ohio. Native to the midwestern and Great Plains states, the Ohio buckeye can reach a height of 60 feet. It is most easily recognized by its compound leaves, composed of 5-7 leaflets openly arranged like fingers on a hand. Clusters of small, pale yellow flowers appear at the ends of the branches. The bark produces a yellow dye that was used to tan leather. Its seeds were a source of oil for lamps and also used as an insecticide or bookbinders paste. The lightweight wood was once used in the production of artificial limbs. - Pacific Dogwood (Cornales Cornaceae Cornus nutallii); Western North America
The Pacific dogwood is the floral emblem for the province of British Columbia. In 1956, a law was passed that prohibited any part of the tree from being dug up or cut down. The species name nuttallii was given in honour of the botanist Thomas Nuttall (1798-1859), a British-born botanist and ornithologist. Since the hard wood of the tree was historically used by the First Nations people for wooden handles, hooks, and skewers called ‘dags’, its name naturally evolved into dogwood. Each flower has four to six white ‘petals’ with a notch at the top of each formed from the notch on the purplish bud before the flower forms. The center of each large flower is actually a cluster of 20-30 tiny green flowerets - Red Buckeye (Sapindales Hippocastanaceae Aesculus pavia); Southeastern North America
The red buckeye is a member of the horsechestnut family and found mainly in the southeastern part of the US. A relatively short tree, it can reach a height of 20 feet. It is distinguished by the upright clusters of dark-red tubular flowers, with each cluster ranging in length from four to ten inches long. The fruit appears in a smooth husk containing one to three shiny reddish-brown nuts. Although these look very much like chestnuts, they are poisonous! - Red Horse Chestnut (Sapindales Hippocastanaceae Aesculus x carnea); Europe
This tree is a hybrid formed from a union between the common horsechestnut and the red buckeye. Although called a chestnut, its fruits should never be confused with the edible chestnuts. All horsechestnuts have toxic seeds, flowers, and leaves; and, although quite showy, this is why they do not make good trees for urban settings. The long, reddish flower-clusters are quite showy in the spring. - Red Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer rubrum); Eastern North America
Although the red maple is sometimes referred to as the swamp maple because of its liking for boggy soils, the tree can tolerate drier soils just as well. A medium-sized tree, it can reach a height of 60 feet. Its distinguishing features are the pendulous clusters of small red flowers that appear in late winter to early spring. Fall colours range from bright yellow to orange to red, with most cultivars being various shades of red. In the early days, pioneers made ink and cinnamon-brown and black dyes from the bark extract. - Ringleaf Willow (Salicales Salicaceae Salix babylonica crispa); China
The ringleaf willow is very much like a normal weeping willow, except that its long, narrow leaves twist and curl up tightly around the stems so that the rings look very much like a rams horn. It grows relatively quickly, reaching a height of up to 50 fee,t but it does require full sun and wet conditions. - Royal Paulownia (Scrophulariales Scrophulariaceae Paulowania tomentosa); China, Europe, and North Africa
The royal paulownia was named after Anna Paulownia, a Russian princess and daughter of Czar Paul I. The species name tomentosa refers to the hairy leaves. The history of this tree is particularly interesting. It was mentioned in one of the worlds oldest natural history encyclopedias of the third century BCE. An entire manuscript, dated 1049, was devoted exclusively to it because it was the most popular cultivated species of that time. The ancient Chinese attached great importance to the tree,as did the Japanese, who harvested the tree to extinction. In Japan, when a girl was born, a paulownia tree was planted; and when she was ready to marry, a wedding chest was built from that tree. The royal paulownia is now considered to be an invasive plant in many countries because it grows extremely fast. Although it is very difficult to propogate, it readily establishes itself in abandoned parking lots and other exhausted soils, including the reclamation of strip mines. The heart-shaped leaves can be as large as a foot long and almost as wide. The large, vanilla-scented flowers, often about ten inches long, are very showy and develop into clusters of upright tubes of purple in late spring. The white wood is unusual in that it is soft enough when first felled to be worked with a knife; but when it fully dries out, it becomes hard and durable. - Shellbark Hickory (Juglandales Juglandaceae Carya laciniosa); Southeastern North America
The Shellbark Hickory is native to the Ohio and Mississippi valley region and, depending on the area, the tree is either threatened or endangered. It is a slow-growing tree and difficult to transplant because of its deep taproot. It is sometimes known as the big shagbark because, as the tree matures, the light gray bark separates into long, shaggy strips. The tree is long-lived and can reach a height of 120 feet with a large trunk diameter. The pendulous male flowers are a yellow-green, while the female flowers are short clusters that develop at the end of the branches. Shellbark hickory nuts are the largest of all the hickories, and are found in thick hard shells. The kernels are oily but sweet and relished by both people and wildlife. It was once one of the most important hickories for its wood, but has been overharvested in many areas. - Silver Maple (Sapindales Aceraceae Acer saccharinum); Eastern North America
The silver maple gained its name from the leaves, which are pale green on top but underneath have a silvery colour. Typical of maples, the leaves do turn yellow or red in the fall. It is a medium-sized tree which can reach a height of 80 feet or more. As the tree matures, the silvery bark breaks off into long scaly plates. - Sweet Mockorange (Cunoniales Philadelphaceae [Hydrangaceae] Philadelphus coronarus); Southeastern Europe and Asia Minor
The sweet mockorange is also known as the English dogwood. It may have received its name from its fragrant white flowers that resemble those of some mock orange trees. The bloom period is quite short, lasting only a week to ten days. The leaves remain green and do not change colour in the fall. - Thornless Honeylocust (Fagales Fabaceae Gleditsia triacanthos inermi); Southeastern North America
The first scientific observations of the thornless honeylocust, a member of the pea family, were made in 1700. Although its name indicates a complete lack of thorns, it does often have a few. Interestingly, most trees sold as “thornless honeylocusts” are not bred from any separate stock of plants. Instead, growers take cuttings from the upper, thornless branches of regular honeylocusts to produce thornless trees the reason why some thorns still develop. In the south, it is still sometimes referred to as the Confederate pintree because the thorns were used to pin uniforms together during the Civil War. The tree actually was named for the sweet, honey-like substance found in its pods. The reddish-brown pods are twisted and can be eight inches long. The seeds inside the pod look like beans. They were sometimes roasted and used as a coffee substitute. A fast-growing tree, it can grow as much as two feet per year over a ten-year period. - Tulip Tree (Magnoliales Magnoliaceae Liriodendron tulipfera); Southeastern North America
The tulip tree is a member of the Magnolia family and the official state tree of several US states. As its name suggests, the tree produces showy, greenish-yellow, tulip-shaped flowers. A fast-growing and long-lived tree, it can reacha height of over 100 feet and live for 150 years. There are records of tulip trees reaching more than 200 feet, but these likely do not exist anymore since loggers have long ago taken such specimens. - Weeping Cut-leaf Birch (Fagales Betulaceae Betula pendula dalecurfica); Europe
Sometimes called the silver birch, the weeping cutleaf has pendulous branches which give it its name. It has, however, smoother bark than most silver birches, but still has the distinctive white colour. A fast-growing tree, it can soon reach a height of 70 feet or more. - Weeping White Mulberry (Urticales Moraceae Morus alba pendula); China
Although this shrubby tree is considered to be an invasive weed in many areas, it can be trained to make a pleasing ornamental except for the berries that create a mess when they fall off the tree. The berries are similar in shape and size to a long blackberry and are typically a mix of white, pink, red, and purple. Birds love them, as do humans and in China. The plant was used to raise silkworms. - White Ash (Gentianales Oleaceae Fraxinus americana); Eastern North America
Interestingly, the white ash is a member of the Olive family and the largest of the sixteen North American ash species. In the past, it could reach a height of 120 feet, but those have disappeared and have been replaced with farmland. Today, they seldom grow to more than 60 feet. The leaves are thin and papery, dark green above and pale beneath, a feature that contributed to the name. In the fall they turn various shades of yellow with an overlay of reds or purple. The flowers hang in clusters and are not very showy. - Whitebeam Mountain Ash (Rosales Rosaceae Sorbus aria); Europe
The whitebeam is a member of the Rose family. The new leaves are a silvery colour with a white down, but turn a very bright green above and white underneath as they mature. Clusters of white flowers appear in late spring, followed by clusters of dark red berry-like fruits in the fall - Yellow Birch (Fagales Betulaceae Betula allegha niensis); Eastern North America
The yellow birch is the most valuable of the native birches and easily recognized by the yellowish-bronze bark for which it is named. The inner bark is aromatic and has a flavour of wintergreen, as do the leaves when they are crushed. The tree is slow-growing; but, if left alone, it can live to be over 300 years of age. The average lifespan, however, is about 150 years. About half of all the growing stock is in Quebec.
History of the Nursery
The 1700-mile (2735-km) Pacific Highway (#101 in the US and #15 in BC) stretched from San Diego, California, to Surrey, British Columbia. By the 1920s, Green Timbers was the last virgin forest along the route and had become a famous tourist attraction. People came from far and wide to see the 5000 acres of giant trees, some reaching more than 200 feet in height.
By the 1870s, lumber mills were quickly consuming what seemed to be an endless supply and by the late 1920s, virtually every giant tree had been cut down. Dignitaries were even on hand to celebrate the felling of that last great tree. A wave of public protest resulted in 266 hectares being set aside for a major nursery and forest education centre.
In 1927, a small experimental nursery had been established north of Victoria, the provincial capital located on Vancouver Island. On March 15, 1930, the first seedlings of Douglas fir and Sitka spruce were transplanted from Victoria to the Green Timbers site. On that day, politicians, foresters, and conservationists planted 121 of those trees. Later, non-native trees were added. For much of the 1930s, Green Timbers was the only nursery in the province and, during its peak, produced 3.5 million seedlings every year.
Green Timbers survived the depression-era economics that stalled many reforestration projects. When work was finished in 1937, more than 350,000 trees were growing in the forest to replace those that had been harvested. The progress of all trees planted has been carefully monitored for growth and for the effect of diseases and pests. This information is vital to increase the survival and growth of seedlings planted throughout the province.
In 1946, the first technical forestry school opened at Green Timbers, offering an intensive nine-month course in forest management techniques. This school continued for thirty-four years until other schools assumed the teaching.
In 1988, Surrey residents voted in favour of dedicating 310 acres (182 hectares) of the area to be left as an urban forest for everyone’s enjoyment. On September 9, 1989, the two billionth tree in British Columbia’s reforestation program was planted by Premier William Vander Zalm. In 1990, the New Commemorative Forest was established to mark the sixtieth anniversary of the original planting. A Millennium Event on September 16th, 2000, marked the seventieth year of the inaugural plantation of Green Timbers and the tenth anniversary of the Commemorative planting.
The Arboretum
By definition, an arboretum is a collection of shrubs and trees grown for educational purposes and was a unique feature of the Green Timbers Nursery, which officially closed in January, 1999. Established in 1930, the Green Timbers Arboretum now contains approximately 140 species of trees on about 0.8 hectares of land. Some of the trees were imported for study purposes while others were donated by agencies as well as by private donors, some from as far away as Scandinavia.
he Arboretum has never been open to the public, but that is changing since the opening of the Surrey Nature Centre and the new hospital, which is adjacent. The new RCMP headquarters will also be in the area, but that project is not expected to be completed until 2013. Through this change, the Arboretum still stands as a monument to the foresight of such men as A. E. Pickford, the first Nursery manager.
The arboretum collection contains some unusual trees.
The Dawn Redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) was believed to be extinct. In 1941, a Japanese botonist catalogued the species from fossilized remains but in 1944, a Chinese forestry professor found it still living in the Hupeh region of China. It can now be found throughout the world and grows especially well in North America.
The Royal Paulowina (Paulowinia tomentosa) is native to Asia. Ancient Japanese tradition held that a Paulowina tree was to be planted in the event of the birth of a daughter. When that daughter married, the tree was cut down and the wood used to make her wedding chest. This tree was introduced to North America in the 1800s because the seed made good packing material for porcelain dishes.
The Sawara False Cypress (Chamaecyparis pisifera) is native to Central and Southern Japan on the islands of Honshu and Kyushu. Although very slow growing, it could reach heights of 50 metres with a trunk diameter of two metres. This was a favourite wood in the building of palaces, temples, shrines, and baths.
Another unusual tree is the Ginkgo Biloba (Maidenhair tree), cultivated for centuries in the temple gardens of China and Japan. The tree was reportedly introduced to North America in the late 1700s and is well known to herbalists for its memory enhancing qualities. The ginkgo tree does not appear to have any natural fungal or insect enemies and has been considered resistant to smoke and drought likely another reason it has survived for the estimated 200 million years.
These are but a few of the rare and unusual trees found in the Arboretum. Now, more than 75 years old, their magnificence can, and should, be truly appreciated, not only for their splendour now, but for their history in the world. Surrey has a living piece of that history right here in the Green Timbers Urban Forest.
We would like to thank Wady Lehmann, Past President of the Green Timbers Heritage Society; Tony Willingdon, of the B. C. Ministry of Forests; Bela Sivak, who worked on the original classifying of the trees; and Don Summers, of the Tree Improvement Branch, Ministry of Forests. They all supported and helped us in some way. Information was obtained from booklets and posted material at the site.
Green Timbers Heritage Society
Since Duane and Pam are former members of the board of directors of the Green Timbers Heritage Society, we are taking this opportunity to advise readers of recent events. As of April 17, 2005, the Arboretum and Nursery area has been turned over to the city of Surrey from the province. The city, in turn, turned the area over to the Society for safe-keeping. One of the Heritage buildings on the site was also dedicated to the Society. This will be their official headquarters and from where they will once again host an eco-educational program that once took place in the Arboretum for elementary school students. Because of the expense of refurbishing the buildings and upgrading the area to accommodate students, the Society is always in need of funds AND/OR donations of such functioning materials as folding chairs, outdoor benches, filing cabinets, media equipment, desks, teaching tools, and others! Please contact us or the Heritage Society if you can donate to a very worthwhile cause
Green Timbers Award
(The following was taken from the Green Timbers Award page This site is hosted by Pacific Regeneration Technologies Inc. (PRT), which consists of a network of nurseries located in Canada and the United States.)
The inception of the “GREEN TIMBERS AWARD” developed from two central issues. The first was to provide a means by which the Forest Nursery community could recognize the history and major contributions of an individual or organization to reforestation in British Columbia, Canada. The second stems from a desire to keep the Green Timbers name alive.
Green Timbers Nursery was closed in January 1999. It was the oldest operational nursery in BC, established in 1930 as a commitment by the government to have a bonafide seedling planting program. Green Timbers is a heritage site housing some of the original buildings, including the original Forest Ranger Training School. In addition it is home to the first plantation in BC, an arboretum and commemorative plantings for the one and two billionth seedlings planted in BC. It is appropriate to use the Green Timbers name as a reflection of the intent of this award.
This year [2004], on September 20, Mr. Jim Kinghorn and Mr. Ev van Eerden together received the “Green Timbers Award,” for their outstanding contributions to forest regeneration excellence in British Columbia.
Fauna
The fauna have not been classified.
Watch for the book on the history of Green Timbers Urban Forest, written by Duane and Pam Duff, due to be released 2010/2011. See Duff Publishing.
