Abies amabilis Red fir (Pinaceae) Evergreen tree

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Abies amabilis
Red fir
Evergreen tree
(1 Page of 5)

The Abies amabilis plant species is found in Northwestern N. America - Alaska to Oregon. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Red fir.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Abies amabilis
Common Name:  Red fir
Family:  Pinaceae
Author:  Douglas. ex Forbes.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  30   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  High mountain slopes and benches, going down to sea-level in the north of its range[82]. The best specimens grow in deep moist soils and cool wet air conditions such as fog belts[229].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a good moist but not water-logged soil in a sheltered position[1]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Plants are very shade tolerant[11, 81] 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]. Trees are somewhat shallow rooted and are therefore susceptible to strong winds[229]. Grows best in the Perthshire valleys of Scotland[11]. It does very well on glacial morraines in Scotland[81]. When grown in an open position, the tree clothes itself to the ground with gracefully drooping branches, though on the whole, this species does not grow well in Britain[11]. Trees have been of variable growth in this country and seem to be short-lived[185]. The best and fastest growing specimens are to be found in the north and far west of the country[185]. Growth in girth can be very quick, 1.8 metres in 35 years has been recorded[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]. The crushed leaves have an odour like orange peel[11]. Plants are strongly outbreeding, self-fertilized seed usually grows poorly[200]. They hybridize freely with other members of this genus[200]. This species is often confused with A. nordmanniana[11]. A very ornamental plant[1]. Trees are sometimes grown as 'Christmas trees'[200]. Plants are susceptible to injury by aphis[11].

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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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