Arbutus menziesii

Madrona is a broadleaf evergreen native to the Pacific coast from British Columbia to California on dry rocky slopes and bluffs. In spring, they produce sprays of white bell-shaped flowers that are followed by round fruits that matures to red. The bark is quite stunning as the bark peels revealing a coppery surface. They are difficult to transplant and can be slow to establish.

This tree requires very well-drained, low fertility, dry soils in full sun to partial shade. It should not be over-watered or fertilized. Use Madrona as a specimen, and for year-round interest.  Its massive root system makes it ideal for erosion control.  

The base of its stem will have an underground regenerative organ that is referred to as a burl, or lignotuber.  A burl is defined as a large, knobby growth, typically found on a tree trunk or branch, while a lignotuber is a burl that grows underground.  It is made up of a collection of tree cells in response to an area where damage has occurred to the tree, such as from pruning.  These form as a means of protecting the tree against destruction of the plant stem, such as can happen by wildfires.  

This tree will most likely do best in NC in the mountains due to the heat and humidity of coastal and Piedmont areas.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  It is susceptible to several diseases including Phytophthora, cankers, leaf spot, and root rot.  Aphids frequent this plant.