A large coniferous tree, Pseudotsuga menziesii (formerly P. taxifolia), known also as red fir, belonging to the pine family (Pinaceae). It is one of the most widespread and most valuable tree species of western North America and ranks among the world's most important. In the United States, this species is first in total stand volume, lumber production, and veneer for plywood. It is the most common Christmas tree in the West and is the state tree of Oregon. The name honors David Douglas, the Scottish botanical explorer who introduced the seeds to Europe.