About

Abies nordmanniana subsp. nordmanniana is an evergreen conifer that can reach heights of over 30 meters. It features a consistently narrow, conical or columnar shape. The foliage consists of dense, rounded, dark green needles that are notched and have a recessed midrib, arranged in distinctive sprays. A portion of the needles is oriented forward, partially covering the shoots. The tree produces slender, elongated cones that measure approximately 15 cm in length and 5 cm in width, with a reddish-brown hue.

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
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
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, Coastal, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained slightly acidic soil in full sun or part shade in a sheltered position out of cold winds. See conifer cultivation
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed in containers in a coldframe, as soon as ripe or in late winter - stratify for 21 days to aid germination; propagate by grafting in winter
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to adelgids and aphids
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free, but may be susceptible to honey fungus