If you live in Snohomish County, chances are you’re surrounded by a wide variety of native trees. Whether you’re a homeowner, hiker, or just curious about the green giants in your neighborhood, this Western Washington common tree ID guide from Snohomish Tree Company will help you identify and appreciate the species that define our local landscapes.

Douglas Fir

One of the most abundant evergreens in Western Washington, Douglas Fir trees have thick, furrowed bark and flat, soft needles that grow all around the twig. The cones feature distinctive three pointed bracts that resemble mouse tails. You’ll find these throughout areas like Everett, Mill Creek, and Monroe.

Western Red Cedar

This iconic Northwest tree is known for its fragrant, reddish bark and drooping branches. Its scale like needles form flat sprays, and small cones resemble wooden roses. Western Red Cedars thrive in moist, shady forests from Snohomish to Lake Stevens and are often used in landscaping and privacy screens.

Red Alder

Red Alder trees grow quickly in disturbed or wet soils and often form dense stands. The leaves are oval with pointed tips and toothed edges, and the bark is smooth and light gray. Look for these along creeks and forest edges in Marysville, Granite Falls, and Bothell.

Bigleaf Maple

True to its name, this tree has leaves that span up to twelve inches across. Bigleaf Maples are deciduous and have rough, mossy bark. In the fall, their golden foliage is easy to spot in wooded areas throughout Arlington, Darrington, and Edmonds.

Pacific Madrone

Madrone trees are unique for their twisting, reddish-orange trunks that peel to reveal smooth green bark underneath. They grow on rocky slopes and dry hillsides in sunnier parts of Western Washington like Mukilteo and Mountlake Terrace. Their broad leaves and clusters of red berries attract birds and wildlife.

Black Cottonwood

Black Cottonwoods are the tallest broadleaf trees in the region. They grow near rivers and wetlands and feature glossy, heart shaped leaves with a strong scent in spring. You’ll recognize them by their fast growth and the white, fluffy seeds they release each year. Common in places like North Lakewood, Gold Bar, and Silvana.

Why Tree Identification Is Useful

Knowing what trees are on your property helps with maintenance, pruning, and safety. Some trees grow fast and need routine trimming, while others may be more brittle or susceptible to wind damage. At Snohomish Tree Company, we use species ID to guide tree care plans, assess hazard potential, and suggest the right solutions.

Tree Services We Offer in Snohomish County

• Tree Pruning to maintain structure and health
• Forest Thinning to improve growth and reduce fire risk
• View Clearing to open up overgrown areas
• Fixing Leaning Trees before they fall
• Stump Grinding after removal
• Dangerous Tree Removal when safety is a concern

Get a Professional Tree Assessment

Not sure what type of tree you have or how to care for it? We’re here to help. Our certified experts offer on site consultations across Snohomish, Monroe, Lynnwood, Arlington, and surrounding communities. We’ll walk your property, identify your trees, and explain any risks or recommendations.

If you found this Western Washington common tree ID guide helpful and want to learn more about the trees on your land, contact us or request a free estimate today. Snohomish Tree Company is proud to serve the entire Snohomish County area with reliable tree services and expert advice.