Subtle signs of Fall coming, #2

Madrona Trees (Arbutus Menziesii) are well-known for their dramatic peeling bark late in summer and early autumn...

The color contrasts of the reddish peeling bark and the avocado hues of the exposed cambrium beneath is so gorgeous.
Another pretty thing about the Madronas is their new foliage growth - such rich shades of persimmon, peach, rust, pink, and delicate greens, all on a shiny leaf surface.



I can't put it better than this quote from PlantGuide.org:

"No American tree of considerable size equals this one in beauty the year around. It bears large conical clusters of white flowers, above the vivid green of its leathery leaves. The tree is further lightened by silvery leaf linings. The red-brown trunk and bright red branches add a rich colour note, which is intensified when the copious scarlet fruits appear and the two-year-old leaves turn to scarlet or orange in the autumn."

Additionally, a poultice of crushed Madrona berries is an incredibly effective treatment for skin exposure to Poison Oak, Poison Ivy or Stinging Nettles. When our trees drop their berries next time, I'll be collecting them for use as a remedy when needed.