I learned recently that the Arbutus is the only broadleaf evergreen that is native to Canada. I had no idea. I think we tend to forget that the majority of trees we take for granted as being indigenous were actually brought in from somewhere else. If memory serves me correct, we have one Arbutus on our property:

When we were having some cedars removed, we were told that removal of Arbutus trees is not permitted. Another thing I didn't know. In any case, taking out our one and only Arbutus was unthinkable. We love the way they look, with their mysterious intertwining limbs, and we marvel at their habit of  turning - almost painfully, it seems - toward the sun. Then there is the crimson bark that peels back in the summer to reveal the most silky, soft, pale wood underneath. These ancient trees flourish along the southern coast of BC and when you see one, you know there is ocean nearby.

For us, the Arbutus is the most welcoming sight when we arrive on Mayne Island. There is a fabulous specimen growing along Fernhill Road that we always say hello to when we pass by. My husband will say to the kids, "Say hi to our tree!"
Sadly, there is a defoliating fungus that is posing a real threat. Constant rain will do this. Here is a tree that seems to thrive in the rockiest, most desolate of places; twisted and craggy, suspended over cliffs, jutting out courageously from the ridge, able to endure the worst of conditions. But suddenly it is showing signs of failure...because of the rain. Climate change, folks. Humans aren't the only creatures who miss the sun...