The Arbutus Trees on the Gulf Islands

Arbutus Menzeisii Tree 

The arbutus trees are very distinctive trees.

Arbutus Tree

There are many Arbutus trees growing on Gabriola Island and they have become my favorite tree here.  The Arbutus tree, also known as the Madrone or Madrona tree is a native species to B.C.  They mostly grow within 5 kms of the sea.
The Arbutus is a rugged tree which shows it's full beauty when it is found clinging to rocky bluffs and cliffs overlooking the ocean.   It can grow to be over 100 feet tall and can grow to be up to ten feet in diameter.  They can live to be 500 years old as they can survive the harshest climates close to the sea.  Wet and windy in the winter, and dry and parched in the hot summer. 
Arbutus is the only deciduous tree that does not loose its leaves in the winter.  The oval shaped leaves have a leathery texture.  The tree is never bare of leaves.
In the spring, the tree has bunches of small bell-shaped white fragrant flowers. 
In the summer, the reddish brown bark sheds. 

Arbutus Bark

Arbutus Tree Berries/Seeds