About
Abies magnifica is an impressive evergreen conifer that can reach heights of 25 to 35 meters under optimal conditions. Young trees exhibit a narrow, conical crown that evolves into a broader, barrel-shaped form as they mature. The tree's common name is derived from the reddish-brown bark found on older specimens. Its needle-like foliage measures up to 3.5 cm in length, displaying a blue-green hue that is glossy on the upper surface, while the underside features two pale, grey lines. The needles are arranged in a spiral pattern along the shoots, demonstrating a slight twist and upward curve. The seed cones are barrel-shaped, measuring between 18 and 25 cm, and are characterized by concealed bracts and a golden-green coloration.
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
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens
- Native to
- USA (California, Oregon, Nevada)
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