🌲
No photo available yet
Submit a photoDouglas-fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
Not a true fir — the distinctive three-pronged bracts on the cones (said to look like mouse feet and tails hiding in the scales) separate it from any other Alberta conifer. Native to Alberta's SW mountain valleys, notably around Waterton. Can reach 40 m tall. Fire-resistant thick bark on mature trees. One of North America's most important timber species.
Quick Facts
Distribution
SW Alberta (Waterton, Crowsnest), Zone 4
Light
Full sun to part shade
Bloom Time
Apr–May (cones)
Soil
Well-drained, slightly acidic mountain soils
Water
Moderate
Pet Safe— Generally considered safe around pets.
Growing & Cultivation
Propagation
Seed after 30–60 days cold stratification. Slow from cuttings. Requires mycorrhizal associations to thrive long-term — plant near established conifers if possible.
