Overview

Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa 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 lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa, commonly known as alpine fir, is an evergreen coniferous tree with a columnar upright habit. It belongs to the genus Abies, which comprises tall trees with whorled branches bearing narrow, flattened leaves that have a whitish underside. This cultivar thrives best in deep, slightly acidic, moist but well-drained loam soils and prefers full sun exposure in sheltered locations. Hardy to UK zone H7, it is suitable for architectural planting and low-maintenance gardens, offering seasonal interest in both spring and winter.

About the genus

Firs are evergreen coniferous trees belonging to the genus Abies in the family Pinaceae. There are approximately 48–65 extant species, found on mountains throughout much of North and Central America, Eurasia, and North Africa. The genus is most closely related to Keteleeria, a small genus confined to eastern Asia.

Wikipedia contributors, "Fir", CC BY-SA 4.0Fir

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 lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa 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 lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa

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 lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa?

Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa need?

Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa grows best in loam soil. It prefers acid soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa hardy in the UK?

Abies lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa 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 lasiocarpa var. lasiocarpa?

Seed, Grafting.

More in the Abies genus

Browse all Abies