Octopus Tree (Oregon)

Not to be confused with the tree octopus.

The Octopus Tree (also known as the Candelabra Tree, Council Tree, and Monstrosity Tree) is a Sitka spruce tree on Cape Meares in Tillamook County, Oregon, United States.^[1]

Octopus Tree
Octopus Tree Cape Meares, Tillamook County, Oregon, United States
Coordinates	45.4863°N 123.9780°W / 45.4863; -123.9780

Description

The tree is approximately 30 m (105 feet) tall and has no primary trunk. Its circumference is approximately 15 m (46 feet). The tree is estimated to be 250–300 years old and has been described as a "natural wonder".^[2] According to the Statesman Journal, "historians say was used by local tribes for ceremonies and was trained into its distinctive octopus shape".^[3]

Reception

The Octopus Tree has been designated a state heritage tree by the Oregon Travel Experience.^[4] Jamie Hale included the tree in The Oregonian's 2017 lists of "The 12 most iconic landmarks on the Oregon coast" and "The 40 best roadside attractions in Oregon".^[5][6] He also included the Octopus Tree in the newspaper's 2019 list of "The 12 best roadside attractions on the Oregon Coast Highway".^[7] The Octopus Tree has also been described as "famous" and "unique".^[8][9]