Start growing
Fast-growing in the right moisture. Prefers full sun and neutral to slightly acidic soil.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
Your guide to planting, growing, and getting to know this plant.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
Douglas Fir care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Pseudotsuga menziesii
- Common names
- Oregon Pine, Red Fir
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Genus
- Pseudotsuga
- Species
- P. menziesii
Growing with your kit
Observe the 'mouse-tail' bracts on the cones provided in your Seeds In A Cup® observation kit.
Propagation
By seed.
Seasonal growth & harvest
One of the longest-lived and largest trees in the world (reaching 300ft+).
Growing conditions
Vast range from coastal temperate rainforests to dry mountain slopes.
Weather & tolerances
Moderately drought tolerant (inland variety); sensitive to high humidity and heat.
Pests & plant health
Douglas-fir beetle and Laminated root rot.
Plant safety
Safe for consumption and handling.
Botanical features
A massive evergreen conifer. Features distinctive cones with three-pointed bracts that look like mouse tails.
Varieties
Standard native species.
Garden & everyday uses
The world's most important timber tree for construction and plywood. Popular Christmas tree
Native range & distribution
Western North America; from British Columbia to California.
Conservation
Widespread and secure; critical for carbon sequestration.
Name origins
Named after David Douglas, the Scottish botanist who first described it.
History
Used by early explorers to make massive masts for sailing ships.