Overview
Abies forrestii var. smithii is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Abies forrestii var. smithii 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 forrestii var. smithii is a cultivar of the Abies genus, which comprises evergreen coniferous trees known for their columnar upright habit and whorled branches with narrow, flattened leaves. This cultivar thrives in full sun and prefers sheltered positions with fertile, well-drained soil that can be clay, loam, or sand, and tolerates acid to neutral pH. It is hardy to UK zone H7 and is suitable for architectural planting and low-maintenance gardens. Interest in this tree is particularly noted during spring and summer seasons.
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 forrestii var. smithii 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 forrestii var. smithii
- 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 forrestii var. smithii?
Abies forrestii var. smithii prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Abies forrestii var. smithii need?
Abies forrestii var. smithii 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 forrestii var. smithii hardy in the UK?
Abies forrestii var. smithii 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 forrestii var. smithii?
Propagate by seed.
More in the Abies genus
- Abiesfir
- Abies alba 'Fastigiata'
- Abies balsameabalsam fir
- Abies balsamea 'Prostrata'
- Abies borisii-regisKing Boris fir
- Abies cephalonica 'Meyer's Dwarf'Greek fir 'Meyer’s Dwarf'
- Abies cilicicaCilician fir
- Abies delavayi 'Green Giant'
