Description
Sorry, we can not ship to Canada.
Latin Name: Pseudotsuga menziesii
Common Name: Douglas Fir, Douglas Tree, Oregon Pine, Douglas Pine
Zone: 4-6
Mature Height: Mature Douglas fir trees typically reach heights of 70 to 100 feet, although some individuals can grow up to 330 feet in optimal conditions. Their height can vary significantly based on factors like soil quality, climate, and competition with other vegetation. They generally have a moderate to fast growth rate. Under optimal conditions, they can grow 24 to 36 inches in height per year during their early years. As they mature, the growth rate typically slows, averaging around 12 to 24 inches annually.
Soil/ Climate: Douglas firs thrive in specific soil and climate conditions: Well-drained soils are essential. They prefer sandy loams or loamy soils that provide good aeration. While they prefer moist soils, they can tolerate some drought once established. However, consistent moisture is crucial for optimal growth. Full sun to partial shade is ideal for their growth.
Notes: Very popular Christmas tree variety. Cones are cylindrical, measuring 3 to 4 inches. Bark is thick, furrowed, and scaly, often with a reddish-brown to gray color. Mature bark can be up to 3 inches thick, which helps protect the tree from fire and pests. The needles are soft, they are flat and linear that are typically 1 to 3 inches long. They appear Dark green on the upper side and a lighter green or blue-green underneath. Needles are arranged spirally on the twig but appear to be in two flat rows.
Problems: Species like the Douglas-fir beetle can cause significant damage by boring into the bark, leading to tree stress and potential mortality. Also, Insects like the flatheaded fir borer can weaken trees by tunneling into the wood. These pests can sap the tree’s strength by feeding on its sap, leading to yellowing needles and reduced vigor. Fungal pathogens such as Armillaria and Pythium can cause root rot, leading to tree decline and death, especially in poorly drained soils. Prolonged periods of low moisture can stress trees, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Sudden temperature fluctuations can also impact growth and health, especially in younger trees.
Wildlife: Douglas firs provide habitat and resources for a diverse array of wildlife. Species like the white-breasted nuthatch are often seen foraging on the bark for insects and seeds. Various woodpecker species, such as the hairy woodpecker and pileated woodpecker, rely on Douglas firs for nesting and foraging. Many songbirds use the foliage for nesting and foraging, including warblers and chickadees. Douglas squirrels and other tree squirrels depend on the cones for food and use the trees for nesting and cover. Mule deer and black-tailed deer forage on the young shoots and foliage, especially in winter. Black bears may visit Douglas fir forests for nuts and berries that grow in the understory.
Cold Stream Farm supplies Douglas Fir trees which are grown as bare root seedlings and transplants and sold both wholesale and retail with no minimum order.
Additional information on Pseudotsuga menziesii can be found on the link: USDA Plants Database
For More Information, visit:
USDA Forest Service – Douglas Fir
Douglas-fir – Bryce Canyon National Park (U.S. National Park Service) (nps.gov)
Scott Parris –
Recently purchased 100 of the 6-12” Douglas Firs. These trees arrived in excellent condition, all very healthy and look fantastic. Have purchased from Cold Stream before and will be doing so again in the future. Great company to buy from. Thank you!