Overview

Abies nephrolepis is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 30 metres tall and 0–0 metres wide. Abies nephrolepis 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 nephrolepis, commonly known as Khingan fir, is a species of fir native to northeastern China (Hebei, Heilongjiang, Jilin, Liaoning, Shaanxi), North Korea, South Korea, and southeastern Russia (Amur Oblast, Jewish Autonomous Oblast, Primorsky Krai, southern Khabarovsk Krai). It is a medium-sized evergreen coniferous tree growing to 30 m tall with a trunk up to 1.2 m diameter and a narrow conic to columnar crown. The bark is grey-brown, smooth on young trees, becoming fissured on old trees. The leaves are flat needle-like, 10–30 mm long and 1.5–2 mm broad, green above, and with two dull greenish-white stomatal bands below; they are spirally arranged, but twisted at the base to lie flattened either side of and forwards across the top of the shoots. Grow it in full sun and most soil types. In UK gardens it is fully hardy throughout the UK (RHS H7). It works well for architectural and low maintenance.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Abies nephrolepis

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
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 nephrolepis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Conifers, Trees
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Evergreen
Height
30 metres
Spread
0–0 metres
Suggested uses
Architectural, Low Maintenance

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Abies nephrolepis

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 nephrolepis?

Abies nephrolepis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Abies nephrolepis need?

Abies nephrolepis 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.

How big does Abies nephrolepis grow?

Abies nephrolepis reaches a height of 30 metres and a spread of 0–0 metres.

Is Abies nephrolepis hardy in the UK?

Abies nephrolepis 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 nephrolepis?

Propagate by seed.

More in the Abies genus

Browse all Abies