This small tree has a solitary or multiple trunks with peeling red-brown bark and spreading branches that form an irregular rounded crown. It has leathery glossy green leaves and the small whitish urn-shaped flowers appear in a cluster in early summer.

Hardiness zones 7 to 10

Arbutus menziesii is naturally found on the west coast of North America from south-western British Columbia (mainly on Vancouver Island and the Gulf islands) to Washington, Oregon and the dry coastal mountains and slopes of California. It grows in the understory of forests and woodlands or on mountain slopes and coastal plains and is commonly associated with water courses or near salt water. 

It prefers a protected sunny to semi-shade position and it grows in a variety well drained and moderately fertile sandy-stony to clay loam. It is drought, salt spray and light frost tolerant and regenerated from seed or from its underground burl after fire.

The Pacific Madrone is grown for its colourful fruit, attractive foliage and bark. It is planted parks and gardens along borders for screening and to attract humming birds or use a specimen in a small garden. It is suitable for coastal and low-mountain regions and establishes in 3-4 years and is along lived. This shrub is also planted in woodland settings or around water features and can be grown in large tubs when young. ID 3391

Arbutus (AR-bu-tus)  menziesii  (menz-ESS-ee-eye)

Arbutus”: ancient Latin name for this plant (possibly from Celtic arboise - rough fruit)

Note:
Populations of this species are in decline due to environmental influences such as erratic summer fires and pressure on habitat from development and soil level changes.

Ericaceae (er-ek-AY-see-ee)
Bilberries, Blueberries,Cranberies, Heathers, Heaths, Rhododendrons, Wintergreens