Octopus Tree of Oregon

The Octopus Tree at Cape Meares is one of the most unusual trees to be found along the Oregon Coast; this notable Sitka spruce is well known for the strange, spreading branches that look like the tentacles of an octopus. The tree is said to be about 250 years old and has thus become an interesting natural feature for tourists who are interested in the forests of Oregon, unusual trees, and the coastal history. 

The famous Octopus Tree at Cape Meares is known for its distinctive, spreading branches.

The Age and Size of the Octopus Tree

Oregon Tree Octopus—The Octopus Tree of Oregon is a noteworthy Sitka spruce located at Cape Meares on the Oregon coast. The tree is estimated to be about 250 years old and approximately 105 feet (32 metres) tall. Its name derives from its distinctive appearance, as it has an unusual structure of many large limbs radiating out from a central trunk. The park is 200 feet above the sea and offers more than three miles of hiking trails. There are also stunning views and the Cape Meares Lighthouse. It stands approximately 32 metres tall and has no primary trunk. It is approximately 32 m tall, has a circumference of 14 metres, and is one of the largest trees in Oregon. The tree is estimated to be two hundred fifty to three hundred years old and is one of the oldest trees in Oregon and has been described as a "natural wonder". The Statesman Journal says that it was used as a ceremonial tree by local tribes. It was then trained to its unique octopus shape, according to historians.

Octopus Tree, Tillamook, Oregon—The Friends of Cape Meares Lighthouse placed a plaque to mark this culturally significant site. A wooden fence surrounds the 50-foot base of the tree to discourage tree climbers. It is impossible to know how the Sitka spruce got its unique shape. Local historians and urban legends both believe that it was a sacred tree planted by the region's original inhabitants. According to legend, these Native American tribes on the coast would choose unique trees for ceremonial purposes. They likely made the branches horizontal while they were young and flexible. Once they were mature, each one was allowed to grow vertically.

The Oregon Travel Experience has made the Octopus Tree a state heritage tree. Jamie Hale featured the tree in The Oregonian’s 2017 lists of "The Twelve Most Iconic Landmarks in Oregon" and "The Forty Best Roadside Attractions in Oregon.” He also included it in The Oregonian's 2019 list, "The 12 Most Iconic Landmarks on the Oregon Coast Highway." The Octopus Tree is also known for being "famous" and "unique".

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Oregon’s Octopus Tree: The Story Behind Its Strange Shape

An ancient Sitka spruce stands as one of the Oregon Coast’s unusual natural landmarks.

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The Octopus Tree is a fascinating attraction near Cape Meares on the Oregon Coast.

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Large branches spread outward from the trunk, giving the tree its distinctive octopus-like appearance.

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Also called the Candelabra Tree, this unusual Sitka spruce has a remarkable natural form.

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Octopus Tree at Cape Meares: Oregon’s Unusual Candelabra Tree

The Octopus Tree rises among the lush coastal forest surrounding Cape Meares.

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The Octopus Tree of Oregon: A Remarkable Natural Wonder

The historic Octopus Tree remains a memorable natural landmark on the Oregon Coast.

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Octopus Tree of Oregon Google Map Location

A closer view reveals the massive trunk and unusual branching structure of the Octopus Tree.

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Conclusion

One of the most unusual natural features found along Oregon's coast is the Octopus Tree of Oregon; this remarkable Sitka spruce at Cape Meares stands out because of its distinct, spreading branches and the fact that it is ancient. Also known as the Candelabra Tree and Council Tree, it continues to attract people who are fascinated by both its strange appearance and its history. The octopus tree is a striking instance of the way in which nature can produce remarkable forms.

SOURCE → WIKIPEDIA / GOTILLAMOOK