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Five Stunning Northwest Natives for Your Garden
Pacific Madrone Tree (Arbutus menziesii)
This gorgeous evergreen broadleaf tree has distinctive bark that peels off in coppery ribbons, revealing smooth chartreuse bark beneath. Older growth has hard brown bark. It has white flower clusters in the spring, and red fruit in the fall. Madrones often grow on steep slopes where it helps stabilize the soil and prevent erosion. Though sometimes difficult to transplant, it is well worth the effort to establish this beautiful, drought tolerant native beauty.
Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii)
Pacific dogwood, sometimes lost in the lush green of our Pacific Northwest forests, cannot be missed in the springtime. Its flowers, up to five inches across, are bold bursts of chartreuse-white. It has a delicate branching habitat, and will eventually grow to 60-feet in height.
Oregon Grape (Mahonia species)
Evergreen foliage that turns from deep green to fiery red in the winter, saturated yellow fragrant flower spikes in spring, and metallic blue berries during the winter give this Northwest native interest in all seasons of the year.
Orange Honeysuckle (Lonicera ciliosa)
This little-known native honeysuckle is found in undisturbed forests of the Pacific Northwest rambling through other shrubs and trees. It has brilliant orange flowers in the springtime followed by red berries that attract wildlife. It can be trained over an arbor or up a tree.
Redwood Sorrel (Oxalis oregana)
Redwood sorrel, often found in undisturbed forests, forms a low fluffy patch of tidy clover-like leaves. In spring, it displays delicate pink flowers. The tough little plant is nearly evergreen, and forms a dense herbaceous layer that keeps weeds away. It is perfect for that shady spot in your garden!
