Arbutus menziesii 'Palisades'

Also Known As

Palisades Madrone

Plant type

tree

size

H: 32'-82'
W: 10'-40'

planting zones

5a-10b

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Arbutus menziesii 'Palisades' plant details

Arbutus menziesii 'Palisades' is a broadleaf evergreen tree with green foliage. In spring white flowers emerge followed by orange and red fruit. Features glossy texture. Attracts bees, birds and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in summer. Does well in average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Arbutus menziesii 'Palisades'

Plant type: tree
Plant family: ericaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 10 FT - 40 FT - wide, 32 FT - 82 FT - tall
Flowers: white blooms in spring
Uses: distinctive bark, native plant, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Arbutus menziesii 'Palisades'

USDA Zones: 5a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low

Soil needs: average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Many years ago Allen Hirsh tipped me off to a grove of high altitude madronas deep within the Cascade Mountains near Packwood, Washington. After checking the plants repeatedly every year for seed, I finally got some and germinated them this year. Named for a geological feature near where I collected it, this exciting offering could potentially expand the range of madrona cultivation to much colder climates. However, well drained soils and a period of summer drought are still necessary to ensure its survival. Try it in Eastern Washington or milder parts of the Intermountain West! Hardy to -20 °F.