Overview
Abies spectabilis is a columnar upright conifers in the genus Abies, part of the Pinaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 50 metres tall. Abies spectabilis 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 spectabilis, the East Himalayan fir, is a conifer species in the family Pinaceae and the genus Abies. It is sometimes held to include the Bhutan fir (A. densa) as a variety. It is found in Afghanistan, China (Tibet), northern India, Nepal, and Pakistan. It is a large tree, up to 50 m (160 ft) tall. In the wild it grows across Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, Tibet and West Himalaya. 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. It tolerates acid and neutral soils, moist but well-drained conditions and south-facing, north-facing, east-facing and west-facing aspects. Grow in deep, moist but well-drained, slightly acidic soil in a cool, humid, sheltered position. Prefers areas with high rainfall. See conifer cultivation.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Abies spectabilis
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 4.0 — Fir
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 spectabilis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Conifers, Trees
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 50 metres
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Low Maintenance
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Abies spectabilis
- 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 spectabilis?
Abies spectabilis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Abies spectabilis need?
Abies spectabilis 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 spectabilis grow?
Abies spectabilis reaches a height of 50 metres.
Is Abies spectabilis hardy in the UK?
Abies spectabilis 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 spectabilis?
Propagate by seed.
