Common Trees of the Gulf Islands: Identification and Knowledge

What are the six most common tree species on Mayne Island? Douglas fir Western red cedar grand fir Arbutus red alder Big leaf maple Which three species are conifer trees?

Douglas fir Conifer Cones not flowers Evergreen Single leader growth Grows in drier sites than Western red cedar

Male Cones Female Cones

Western red cedar Conifer Cones not flowers Evergreen Single leader growth Grows in wetter sites than Douglas fir

Male Cones Female Cones

Grand fir Conifer Cones not flowers Evergreen Single leader growth Grows in wetter sites like Western red cedar

Notched tips

What’s the difference? Douglas firgrand fir

What are the six most common tree species on Mayne Island? Douglas fir Western red cedar grand fir Arbutus red alder Big leaf maple Which three species are broad-leaf trees?

Arbutus Flowering plant Flowers not cones White flowers, red berries Broadleaf evergreen Multiple leader growth Grows in dry sites

Big leaf maple Flowering plant Flowers not cones Yellow flowers, helicopter seeds Deciduous Multiple leader growth Grows in wetter sites or seepage areas

Red alder Flowering plant Flowers not cones Deciduous Multiple leader growth Grows in wet sites Access to atmospheric nitrogen Can grow in poor soils

Male Cones Female Cones

Activity: Measuring Tree Diameter 1. Measure the circumference of the tree 1.3m from the ground and record the measurement 2. Divide the circumference by π (3.14) circumference ÷ 3.14 = diameter

This education resource was produced by the Mayne Island Conservancy Society thanks to the financial support of: