America's Next Top Tree

Ponderosa Pine

Scientific Name: Pinus ponderosa.

One of the most abundant conifer species in the western U.S., ponderosa pine is beloved for its incredible height and straight, sturdy trunk (a mature tree can grow over 200 feet tall!). Named for its heavy (or ponderous) wood, ponderosa pine is prized for building classic, western-style furniture. But the ponderosa pine’s true superpower is its fire-resistant armor; the tree’s thick bark protects it so it can survive all but the most severe crown-fires.

Because of its drought-tolerance and ability to survive low intensity wildfires, ponderosa pine is one of the top tree species we plant on national forests.

Where to spot ponderosa pine: Coconino National Forest.

Fun Facts:

• Ponderosa pine bark has a sweet smell similar to vanilla or butterscotch.
• The ponderosa pine is the major species used for dendrochronology, or tree-ring dating, to study historic climate patterns by reading the width of tree rings.
• The ranch in the iconic western “Bonanza” was named after the ponderosa pine.

Giant Sequoia

Scientific Name: Sequoiadendron giganteum.

The giant sequoia hardly needs an introduction. Although it only grows in a narrow band on the western slope of the Serria Nevada Mountains, it is one of the most iconic trees in North America. The giant sequoia is the largest tree species in the world and can reach ages of up to 3,000 years, providing awe-inspired visitors a window into the deep past. Tree ring studies of giant sequoias have provided researchers with invaluable records of climate and fire history in the area, helping conservationists better understand the relationship between fire and forest health.

Where to spot giant sequoia: Sequoia National Forest.

Fun Facts:

• Giant sequoias only need to produce one mature offspring to sustain the species.
• Giant sequoias are adapted to and need wildfire to survive. Trees can retain seeds for up to 20 years and will only release seeds after a fire.
• Giant sequoias’ bark can grow up to two feet thick, protecting trees from wildfire.

Douglas-fir

Scientific Name: Pseudotsuga menziesii.

To many, the Douglas-fir is a tree to gather around during the holidays, but in the old growth forests of the Pacific Northwest, their magnificent size and quite power inspire awe all year long. Along the coast of Washington and Oregon, it is common to find trees an astounding 250 feet tall and five to six feet wide! These trees’ smaller cousin can be found throughout the Cascades, Sierra Nevada, and Rocky Mountains. Douglas-fir can grow in a variety of climates and soil types, and develops a higher tolerance to fire as it ages, making it one of the top tree species we plant in western forests.

Where to spot Douglas-fir: Olympic National Forest.

Fun Facts:

• The Douglas-fir is the second tallest tree species in the world.
• Douglas-firs were used by Native Americans for building, basketry, and medicinal purposes to treat aches, rheumatism, and the common cold.
• You can cut your own Douglas-fir Christmas tree on a National Forest. Visit your local Forest Service ranger distinct for more information permitting.