About the Douglas Fir
A very common NW conifer, the Douglas Fir graces many a neighborhood already. The average height of an old growth tree is between 75-125 ft., but it has historically reached heights over 300 ft. It is a popular Christmas tree species. It prefers well drained soils. It is known for its “groovy” bark and cones with 3 pronged bracts, which look like the back ends of mice hiding in the cone scales. Douglas fir trees grow with a “central leader.” This is what forms the single trunk. As with most conifers, it is important never to “top” these trees.
