About

Abies koreana 'Brilliant' is a compact, low-growing conifer that forms a cushion-like mat. This cultivar features dense, vibrant green needles that are both glossy on the upper surface and silvery-green underneath. Over a decade, it develops a small, nearly horizontal mound, reaching a height of up to 40cm and spreading to about 60cm wide. Its growth is slow, typically not exceeding 4cm in height each year. The needles, measuring between 8 and 20mm, are tightly clustered around the short, stout branches.

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
Clump forming
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
0.1-0.5 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
10-20 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens

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 grafting.
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to adelgids and aphids
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to honey fungus.