Abies alba Silver fir (Pinaceae) Evergreen tree

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Abies alba
Silver fir
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Abies alba plant species is found in C. and S. Europe It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Silver fir. Some home gardeners know the variety as A. pectinata. A. picea.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Abies alba
Common Name:  Silver fir
Family:  Pinaceae
Author:  Mill.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  45   Mature Width:  15

Habitat:  Forests in mountains, 1000 - 1600 metres.

General Uses: An oleo-resin is obtained from blister-like swellings in the bark[64, 100]. It is harvested in the summer and used fresh, dried or distilled for oil[238]. The resin extracted from it is used in perfumery, medicine and for caulking ships[46, 61, 64, 100]. It is called 'Strasburg Turpentine'[46]. Oil of turpentine is an important solvent in the paint industry[238]. The residue, known as 'rosin oil', is used in making varnishes, lacquers and carbon black (for pigments and ink)[238]. Resin is tapped from trees about 60 - 80 years old in the spring and used for the distillation of oil[238]. An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used as a disinfectant and also in medicine and perfumery[46, 61]. It is a common ingredient in many bath products, giving them their familiar pine scent[7]. The bark is a source of tannin[7]. Wood - light, soft, durable, elastic. The timber of this tree is especially sought after for its lightness, it is used for construction, furniture, boxes, pulp etc[7, 46, 61, 89, 101].

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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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