About the Pacific Madrone
This elegant, broad-leaved evergreen tree, has a distinctive reddish brown trunk with exfoliating smooth bark on upper branches. White flower clusters in mid spring are followed by orange to reddish berries in the fall. It likes dry, well drained soil with sunny exposure. In sunny locations, its deep roots can help hold embankments. Avoid planting in lawns; it will not like frequent irrigation. You should also avoid planting Madrones near patios or other hard surfaces because it will drop leaves and bark all summer long, causing the need for constant clean-up. Pacific Madrone, Madrona, (or Arbutus for our Canadian friends!.) is a favorite of many, but others do not like its messy nature.
