Abies lasiocarpa Subalpine fir (Pinaceae) Evergreen tree

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Abies lasiocarpa
Subalpine fir
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Abies lasiocarpa plant species is found in Western N. America - Alaska to Arizona and New Mexico. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Subalpine fir. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. subalpina. Pinus lasiocarpa.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
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Latin Name:  Abies lasiocarpa
Common Name:  Subalpine fir
Family:  Pinaceae
Author:  (Hook.)Nutt.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  25   Mature Width:  4

Habitat:  Often found in poor and rocky soils[229], it is rarely seen below 600 metres. It grows in forests right up to the timber line where it is no more than a shrub on exposed slopes at high altitudes[226].

Cultivation Notes: Prefers a good moist but not water-logged soil[1]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Very shade tolerant, especially when young, but growth is slower in dense shade[81]. Intolerant of atmospheric pollution[1]. Prefers slightly acid conditions down to a pH of about 5[200]. Prefers growing on a north-facing slope[200]. Occasionally planted for timber in N. Europe[50] but this species does not thrive in Britain[11]. It is a very cold-hardy tree but the milder winters of this country make it susceptible to damage by aphis and late frosts[1, 11, 81]. The sub-species A. lasiocarpa arizonica. (Merriam.)Lemmon. is growing somewhat better here[185]. Trees should be planted into their permanent positions when they are quite small, between 30 and 90cm in height. Larger trees will check badly and hardly put on any growth for several years. This also badly affects root development and wind resistance[200]. Plants are strongly outbreeding, self-fertilized seed usually grows poorly[200]. They hybridize freely with other members of this genus[200]. The crushed foliage has a balsam aroma[185].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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