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Pseudotsuga Menziesii Var. Glauca

Pseudotsuga Menziesii Var. Glauca

Description

Pseudotsuga Menziesii Var. Glauca, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir, is a coniferous tree species that is native to the Rocky Mountains of North America. It belongs to the Pinaceae family and is one of the most important timber trees in the region. This evergreen tree can grow up to 60 meters tall and is characterized by its straight trunk, pyramidal crown, and grey-green needles that are about 2.5 centimeters long.

Taxonomic Information

Domain Eukaryota
Kingdom Plantae
Phylum Pinophyta
Class Pinopsida
Order Pinales
Family Pinaceae
Genus Pseudotsuga

Appearance

The Rocky Mountain Douglas fir has a straight trunk that can grow up to 2 meters in diameter. Its crown is pyramidal and can spread up to 12 meters wide. The needles are grey-green in color, about 2.5 centimeters long, and are arranged spirally on the branches. The cones are 7-10 centimeters long, have a distinctive three-pronged bract that protrudes from each scale, and are green when young, turning brown as they mature.

Care Guide

To care for the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to grow it in the appropriate hardiness zones. This tree prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It also requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. The Rocky Mountain Douglas fir is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Rocky Mountain Douglas fir is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including bark beetles, aphids, spider mites, and rust. It is also prone to root rot, needle blight, and canker. Proper care and maintenance, such as regular pruning and fertilization, can help prevent these issues.

Habitat

The Rocky Mountain Douglas fir is native to the Rocky Mountains of North America, where it grows at elevations of 1,500-3,500 meters. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including montane, subalpine, and alpine forests.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir be grown in containers?

A: While it is possible to grow the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir in containers, it is not recommended as it can outgrow the container quickly and become root-bound.

Q: Is the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir a fast-growing tree?

A: The rate of growth for the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir is considered moderate, with an average yearly growth of 30-60 centimeters.

Q: What is the lifespan of the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir?

A: The Rocky Mountain Douglas fir can live up to 1,000 years in the wild.

Q: Is the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir a good tree for windbreaks?

A: Yes, the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir is an excellent tree for windbreaks due to its dense, pyramidal crown and deep-rooted system.

Related Plants

  • Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii
  • Pseudotsuga lindleyana
  • Pseudotsuga macrocarpa
  • Pseudotsuga sinensis

References

  • “Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b152.
  • “Pseudotsuga Menziesii var. glauca.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:263147-2.
  • “Rocky Mountain Douglas-Fir.” United States Department of Agriculture. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/psemeg/.

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