1)  Sequoiadendron giganteum                                                 Sierra Redwood

These impressive trees are scattered around Seattle and West Seattle. The grove on the western border of the Pinetum is worth a visit (located at: 101-48-K).  Feel the “vibe”!

Lincoln Erbeck

2)   Platanus orientalis                                                                 Oriental Plane

This is a excellent urban tree. You’ve probably zoomed past a good example many times along the Lake Washington Boulevard (located at: 31-54-C). The leaves are an eye and sneeze irritant.

Lincoln Erbeck

3)   Betula nigra                                                                                   River Birch

The Arboretum has an excellent example (located at: 336-52-A). The fall color is to die for!   Visit a lovely grove just southwest of the wading pool at Green Lake. If you’re sad that birch borers killed your tree, you could re-plant this.

Lincoln Erbeck

4)   Pinus montezumae                                                               Montezuma Pine

Located in Crab Apple Meadow (located at: 560-65-A), this plant is currently designated as a heritage tree. Has 14” needles – you have to see it to believe it! Native to Mexico.

Lincoln Erbeck

5)   Pinus contorta                                                                             Shore Pine

This fabulous native is hiding in plain sight in most neighborhoods in Seattle. Each one is a ‘snowflake’ in that no two are alike. Its cousin is the Lodgepole Pine.  For whatever reason on the west side of the Cascade Mountains, they typically have leaning contorted trunks. If you’re standing at the Graham Visitors Center, walk into the park on the path to the left and stay left for 150 feet.  It’s one of the only native trees with signage in the whole park.

Lincoln Erbeck