AI seems to be the latest rage in our modern times but I have tended to stay away from using any of the writing and photography models because that’s what I tend to do. On the photography side I’m really tired of seeing fake landscape images of the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley. You know the ones! On the writing side; I don’t write as much as I used to because I’m more of a visual person but still when I do write I try to be a little creative and use my mind.
I was looking through some Arbutus menziesii images earlier today and this got me thinking… what would ChatGTP spit out. If you want the facts it’s not too bad. I don’t see anything that stands out as being incorrect.
Anyway, forget the facts (posted below), I’m a photographer so let’s enjoy some images.
The arbutus tree (also known as ) is a unique and beautiful broadleaf evergreen tree native to the west coast of North America, particularly from British Columbia down through California.
Key Features of the Arbutus Tree:
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Common Names: Arbutus, Madrone (U.S.), Madroño (Spanish), Pacific Madrone.
Arbutus trees at sunset
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Bark: One of its most striking features. It has smooth, reddish-orange bark that peels off in thin sheets, revealing fresh green bark underneath, which then turns reddish as it matures.
Arbutus bark -
Leaves: Evergreen, glossy, dark green on top, and pale underneath. Oval-shaped with a leathery texture.
Arbutus leaves on a shell beach, Russell Island -
Flowers: Clusters of small, bell-shaped white or pink flowers appear in the spring and are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
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Fruit: Produces bright red-orange berries in the fall, which are edible (but mealy and bland for humans) and loved by birds and wildlife.
Arbutus tree fruit -
Size: Can grow up to 30 meters (100 feet) tall in ideal conditions, but many are smaller depending on location.
A tall arbutus tree -
Habitat: Prefers well-drained soils and thrives in sunny, rocky, coastal environments. Often found on cliffs, slopes, and bluffs.
Portland Island