Types Of Trees In Oregon

 In Inexpensive Tree Care Blog

The Pacific Northwest is full of beautiful greenery. Oregon itself is home to a wide variety of trees. What are some of the types of trees in Oregon?

According to the Oregon Forest Resources Institute, there are 30 coniferous species and 37 species of broadleaf trees native to Oregon.

With nearly half of Oregon’s land covered by forests, it is fascinating to walk through and see the various tree species that call our state home.

Here are some of the most common types of trees in Oregon. They are not necessarily native to the region, but you have almost certainly seen these throughout the forests and neighborhoods in which we live, work, and play.

Douglas Fir

This evergreen conifer species is not only beautiful, but it is strong. Lumber made of Douglas fir trees makes it the perfect option for a variety of construction uses, including homes, large commercial buildings, bridges, and more.

This is the state tree of Oregon. They can grow up to 200 feet tall and can live for hundreds of years. They thrive in different weather conditions, including wet, mild, and dry.

Bigleaf Maple

This is a medium to large tree that can grow up to 120 feet tall. They have the biggest leaves of all maple varieties, which is how the name is derived.

The wood of this maple tree is commonly used in furniture, flooring, and cabinets, and the sap can be used to make maple syrup.

It does well during dry, warm seasons, but also grows in moisture — even in cool coastal parts of Oregon.

Oregon Ash

This is a native tree found around the state, especially in areas near streams and wetlands. These trees are considered small to medium, growing up to 100 feet tall. Ash is a common choice for making skis, baseball bats, and other sporting materials.

Pacific Dogwood

Nothing says springtime like a stunning flowering tree. These trees are best known for their beautiful white flowers. They grow only to about 30 feet. Once the flowers are gone, red or orange berries grow in their place, providing food for birds and other animals through the cooler fall and winter months.  

Ponderosa Pine

These trees are usually found in Eastern Oregon but are also commonly seen in parts of Western Oregon, especially in the Willamette Valley. They thrive in cold, snowy winters and do best when summers are short and dry. They have long needles that grow in bunches of three, can grow up to 200 feet and can live up to seven centuries. Imagine the stories they could tell!

These Oregon tree varieties are just some of the many different ones that are out there. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to unwind and connect with nature, plan an adventure into one of Oregon’s many forests and see what trees you can identify.

Look for forest types of trees in state forests, the Coast Range, and elsewhere. You’ll likely see Western hemlock, grand firs, true firs, red alder, Western junipers, Sitka spruces, Oregon white oak, and so many others. You’ll also see a healthy mix of old and young trees, some with broad leaves and others with needle-like leaves

Get in touch with Inexpensive Tree Care with any questions.

Recent Posts
View through the pine tree forest in winter to illustrate how to protect newly planted trees from frost.person walking through some trees