Oregon’s State Flower

Oregon’s state flower and tree both recall a botanist from Scotland named William Douglas. Douglas and his colleagues moored their ship, the William and Mary, in the mouth of the Columbia River in 1825. Douglas’ explorations were exceedingly fruitful. He was the first to collect Oregon grape and send it back to England. Oregon’s state tree, the Douglas fir, is named for Douglas.

In 1890, George H. Himes suggested that the Oregon Historical Society pass a resolution designating a state flower. He suggested the Oregon grape. Other flowers were also named, but the Society couldn’t settle on a candidate. A similar effort failed to produce a candidate in 1891.

A state flower was discussed at yet another meeting in 1892. The bearded gaillardia, Washington lily, wake-robin, madrone, and Oregon grape were all suggested. The Oregon grape received a large majority of votes.

The Oregon Federation of Women’s Clubs rallied behind the Oregon grape. It was adopted as Oregon’s state flower in January 1899. Oregon was the tenth state to adopt an official flower.

Oregon grape is a low growing plant native to much of the Pacific Coast and found sparsely east of the Cascades. Its evergreen foliage of pinnated, waxy green leaves resembles holly.

With its striking foliage and bright yellow clusters of little bell-shaped flowers in the spring, Oregon grape is as popular as an ornamental plant as it is outdoors. In late fall, its dark blue berries ripen and can be used in cooking.

Image courtesy
of the Santalady

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