Overview
Abies balsamea is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Abies balsamea grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural and low maintenance.
About
Abies balsamea or balsam fir is a North American fir, native to most of eastern and central Canada (Newfoundland west to central Alberta) and the northeastern United States (Minnesota east to Maine, and south in the Appalachian Mountains to West Virginia). In the garden it prefers full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). Suggested uses include architectural and low maintenance. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, east-facing and west-facing aspects. Grow in moist but well-drained, slightly acidic soil in a cool, humid climate. Intolerant of heat and drought. See conifer cultivation.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Abies balsamea
About the genus
Firs are evergreen coniferous trees belonging to the genus Abies in the family Pinaceae. There are approximately 48–65 extant species, found on mountains throughout much of North and Central America, Eurasia, and North Africa. The genus is most closely related to Keteleeria, a small genus confined to eastern Asia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Fir", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Fir
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Abies
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, North-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Abies balsamea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers, Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Abies balsamea
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to adelgids and aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Abies balsamea?
Abies balsamea prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Abies balsamea need?
Abies balsamea is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Abies balsamea hardy in the UK?
Abies balsamea has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
How do I propagate Abies balsamea?
Propagate by seed.
