Standard English Name(s): arbutus
Local English Name(s):
Scientific Name(s): Arbutus menziesii Pursh
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s): qa:nlhp
Island Halkomelem Name(s): qa:nlhp

Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
Arbutus is a somewhat unusual tree because of its bark, which naturally peels off and away from the trunk and branches. This small to medium-sized tree has evergreen leaves and white flowers that appear in large, drooping clusters. The fruits are orange-red berries. Arbutus grows on dry, sunny, frequently rocky sites throughout the southern coast of British Columbia and the southeastern part of Vancouver Island.

Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
The leaves or inner bark of arbutus may be chewed for toothache and stomach problems.