Standard English Name(s): Douglas-fir
Local English Name(s): "fir"
Scientific Name(s): Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco
Upriver Halkomelem Name(s):
Downriver Halkomelem Name(s): sleyuhp
Island Halkomelem Name(s): c'sey'

Description, Habitat, Ecology, & Distribution:
     This tree, known locally as "fir," is not closely related to the true firs (Abies spp., including the species commonly known as "balsam fir"). Douglas-fir is a large (from 70 to sometimes 90 m [230-295 ft]) needle-leaved, cone-bearing tree. It has spreading to drooping branches, and very thick, rough, dark brown bark. The cones are unique among local conifers in that yellowish, three-tipped bracts (modified leaves) hang down amidst the scales of the cones (and are sometimes said to resemble the feet and tails of mice hiding amongst the scales). It occurs from very dry, low elevations to moist, high elevations from southwestern British Columbia to California and throughout the Halkomelem territory.

Upriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
     The wood of this tree was used for firewood, especially the bark and pitchwood from rotten trees. The pitch was burned onto canoes for use as caulking and the trees were used for poles.

Downriver Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
Island Halkomelem Cultural Role(s):
     Douglas-fir wood has been used for the shafts of fishing spears and harpoons. The bark from old snags is said to be a good fuel for fires.