Originally from North America, it was introduced in Europe in 1827 and around 1842 in our regions. Its common name was given to it in memory of the Scottish nurseryman David Douglas (1799-1834) who introduced it to Europe in 1827.

This tree has a rapid growth, hence its important use for reforestation.

It also has good technological qualities, especially for exterior construction because it is rot-proof at heart. Douglas-fir accepts cold and watered climatic conditions and is widely used in Europe and in our Ardennes. It can live between 400 and 500 years.

Height : 50 to 80 meters high for a diameter of 2 meters.

Bark : cracked, brown-red in color.

Needles: swab (radiating around the twig), flexible, arched, without marked white bands on the back. 1.5 to 3 cm, they are soft and dark green and give off a lemon scent when crumpled.

Fruits : the cones, the size of which varies between 5 and 8 cm, have the particularity of having a 3-pointed bract. These bracts are longer and paler than the scales and have a trident shape. As with all conifers, quails open with heat to release the seeds.

Use : Lumber, exterior construction