About

Abies chensiensis is a substantial conifer that can grow as tall as 40 meters in its natural habitat. Its bark is dark grey, maturing into deep grooves over time, while its branches extend upward, forming a conical shape. The tree features slender, pointed needles that are dark green and arranged in pairs along the branches. The cones are initially green and develop into a light brown hue as they mature.

About the genus

Abies are evergreen coniferous trees that can reach significant heights. They feature whorled branches that support narrow, flattened leaves, typically having a whitish underside. The upper branches produce substantial cones that disintegrate while still attached to the tree.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Conifers, Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
Higher than 12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
More than 50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Prefers rich, deep,well-drained soil in a relatively sheltered position. See conifer cultivation
Pruning
No pruning required
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