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Madrone tree Facts

Madrone tree Facts
Madrone tree, also known as arbutus tree, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the heather family. It can be found along the coast of Pacific Ocean (northwestern parts of North America). Madrone tree grows on the rocky, well-drained soil, oriented toward the south or southwest, in areas that provide enough sun. Fire control is the major threat for the survival of madrone trees in the wild (fire eliminates major competitors - conifers, and ensures fast sprouting of seeds). People cultivate madrone tree mostly in ornamental purposes.
Interesting Madrone tree Facts:
Madrone tree can reach 30 to 75 feet in height and 2 to 6 feet in width (diameter of trunk).
Madrone tree frequently changes direction of growth because it tries to outgrow the nearby trees and gets as much sun as possible. As a result, it usually has twisted trunk.
Mature bark of madrone tree is dark red colored. Each year during the summer, madrone tree discards large pieces of old bark and exposes newly formed, smooth, yellowish green bark underneath.
Madrone tree produces broad, oval, leathery, green leaves. They are spirally arranged on the branches. Leaves can be seen on the tree all year round. Old leaves are replaced with new ones usually once every 13 to 14 months.
Madrone tree produces white, bell-shaped flowers arranged in large clusters. Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (perfect flowers).
Madrone tree blooms during the spring and fills the air with lilac-like scent. Flowers attract bees and butterflies, main pollinators of this species.
Fruit of madrone tree is small, orange or red, berry-like drupe. Madrone tree requires hot, dry summer for the successful development of flowers and fruit.
Deer like to eat fruit, bark and leaves of madrone tree. Fruit-eating birds facilitate dispersal of seed in the wild.
Madrone tree is also known as "strawberry tree" due to numerous strawberry-like fruit that tree produces during the autumn. Name "madrone tree" originates from Spanish word "madrono", which is used to describe closely related species of strawberry tree from the Mediterranean region.
Native Americans used fruit of madrone tree for the manufacture of cider and in decorative purposes. Necklaces made of "berries" are durable and long-lasting (fruit has rocky texture after drying).
Bark and leaves of madrone tree can be used in treatment of common cold and sore throat. Leaves are useful in treatment of stomach cramps and skin sores.
Tannins extracted from the bark of madrone tree can be used for tanning of leather.
Hardwood of madrone tree can be used for the manufacture of veneer, drawers, cabinets and as a firewood.
Strong root system of madrone tree can prevent erosion of the soil.
Madrone tree is perennial plant that can survive more than 200 years in the wild.


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