Overview
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and acid pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include architectural and low maintenance.
About
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' is a cultivar of the Abies genus, which comprises evergreen coniferous trees with whorled branches and narrow, flattened leaves often showing a whitish underside. This cultivar maintains a columnar upright habit and evergreen foliage. It thrives in full sun and prefers moist but well-drained, acidic loam soil. Suitable for sheltered locations, it is hardy in the UK (H7) and is best grown in fertile, well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Its season of interest spans spring and summer, making it a low-maintenance choice for architectural planting.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Abies
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing, North-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' 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 'Prostrata'
- Propagation
- Seed, Grafting
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to adelgids, aphids
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Abies balsamea 'Prostrata'?
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' need?
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' hardy in the UK?
Abies balsamea 'Prostrata' 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 'Prostrata'?
Seed, Grafting.
More in the Abies genus
- Abiesfir
- Abies alba 'Fastigiata'

- Abies balsameabalsam fir

- Abies borisii-regisKing Boris fir

- Abies cephalonica 'Meyer's Dwarf'Greek fir 'Meyer’s Dwarf'

- Abies cilicicaCilician fir
- Abies delavayi 'Green Giant'

- Abies densaSikkim fir
