About

Abies fargesii is a tall, evergreen conifer characterized by its narrow, columnar form and its pale-brown bark, which has a flaky texture. The shoots from the previous year display a dark purple hue, topped with conical buds of the same color. The dark green needles measure approximately 2.5 cm in length, arranged in a way that they extend downward and also point forward from the shoots. The seed cones can grow to about 9 cm in length and 4 cm in width, starting off as bluish-purple and transitioning to a purplish-brown as they mature, featuring protruding bracts.

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, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Plant type
Conifers, Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
Higher than 12 metres
Spread
2.5-4 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens
Native to
N & C China

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows best in deep, slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soils in cooler climates. 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.