Coquille Myrtle Grove

Coquille Myrtle Grove State Natural Site protects an outstanding grove of Oregon myrtle (California bay laurel) trees along the Coquille River in Coos County on the southern Oregon coast. The grove features some of the largest and oldest myrtle trees in the state, growing in the mild, protected conditions of the Coquille River valley. The aromatic trees, prized for their beautifully figured wood, represent a botanical treasure of southwestern Oregon.

The myrtle grove and river corridor support diverse wildlife. The Coquille River provides habitat for salmon, steelhead, and resident trout. Band-tailed pigeons feed on myrtle berries. The mixed forest canopy supports woodpeckers, nuthatches, and various songbirds. Black-tailed deer browse in the understory. The river corridor provides habitat for river otters, beavers, and great blue herons.

The grove features exceptionally large Oregon myrtle trees with trunks several feet in diameter. The aromatic evergreen leaves are distinctive and fragrant. Associated species include Douglas-fir, tanoak, bigleaf maple, and red alder. The understory includes sword fern, Oregon grape, and various shade-tolerant herbs. The myrtle trees produce small flowers followed by olive-like fruits that attract wildlife.

The site sits in the Coquille River valley, carved through marine sedimentary formations of the Coast Range. The valley's alluvial soils provide excellent growing conditions for the myrtle trees. The surrounding hills expose Tertiary-age sandstones and mudstones.

The Coquille River valley enjoys a mild, marine-influenced climate ideal for myrtle growth. Winters are mild with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. The valley setting provides protection from coastal winds. Annual precipitation averages 60-70 inches.

The Coquille people utilized myrtle wood for tools, utensils, and other purposes. Euro-American settlers recognized the commercial value of the beautifully grained wood, and the myrtle wood industry became culturally significant to the southern Oregon coast. Myrtle wood shops producing bowls, carvings, and decorative items remain popular tourist attractions.

Coquille Myrtle Grove was designated as a State Natural Site to protect this exceptional stand of old-growth myrtle trees from logging. The preservation reflects the increasing recognition of the myrtle's botanical and cultural significance.

Short trails wind through the grove, allowing visitors to appreciate the impressive myrtle trees. The aromatic character of the forest is a distinctive sensory experience. The site appeals to botany enthusiasts and wood crafters interested in seeing the source of the prized myrtlewood.

The grove is located in the Coquille River valley in Coos County. Facilities are minimal. Coquille and nearby Bandon provide visitor services.

The primary conservation concern is sudden oak death (Phytophthora ramorum), which threatens myrtle/bay laurel populations throughout their range. Monitoring and prevention of pathogen introduction are critical management priorities.