madrona

plant

Also known as: Arbutus menziesii, Oregon laurel, Pacific madrona, laurelwood(Show More)

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July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The term "madrona" refers to any of several evergreen trees belonging to the genus Arbutus within the heath family, Ericaceae. These plants are native to southern Europe and western North America.12

A prominent species is A. menziesii, commonly known as Pacific madrona or madroño. This tree, found along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to California, is characterized by its smooth, reddish bark that peels to reveal new layers. It has thick, glossy leaves and produces white or pinkish bell-shaped flowers followed by fleshy red berries. Other species include the Texas madrone (A. xalapensis) and Arizona madrone (A. arizonica) found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The strawberry tree (A. unedo) is another species, native to the Mediterranean region.132

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arbutus
Major species
Variously known as madrona, Pacific madrona, laurelwood, and Oregon laurel, A. menziesii occurs in western North America from British Columbia to California. It grows about 23 meters (75 feet) tall. The dark oblong glossy leaves are 5–15 cm (2–6 inches) long and are coloured grayish green beneath. The…
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Variously known as madrona, Pacific madrona, laurelwood, and Oregon laurel, A. menziesii occurs in western North America from British Columbia to California. It grows about 23 meters (75 feet) tall. The dark oblong glossy leaves are 5–15 cm (2–6 inches) long and are coloured grayish green beneath. The…
Read More