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Abies cephalonica Grecian fir Evergreen tree (1 Page of 5) The Abies cephalonica plant species is found in Europe - S. Greece to Yugoslavia and Albania. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Grecian fir. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Abies cephalonica Common Name: Grecian fir Family: Pinaceae Author: Loud. Known Hazards: None known Mature Height: 36 Mature Width: 10 Habitat: Cool wet mountainsides over 800 metres[50, 200].
Cultivation Notes: Prefers a good moist but not water-logged soil[1]. Grows well in heavy clay soils. Plants are very shade tolerant but growth is slower in dense shade[81]. Intolerant of atmospheric pollution[1]. Prefers slightly acid conditions down to a pH of about 5, though it also succeeds in very chalky soils[200]. Prefers growing on a north-facing slope[200].
This species needs careful siting because it usually comes into leaf early in the spring and the young growth can be damaged by late frosts[11, 185]. Trees can therefore be rather slow to establish[185]. A position sheltered from early morning sun is preferred and frost hollows should be avoided[11, K].
Trees grow very well in Britain, and unlike most other members of this genus they succeed in southern and southeastern England[11] though they are slow growing there. They are at their best in the Perthshire valleys of Scotland and the far west of Britain where growth is much faster[11, 185]. Growth in girth can be quite fast, 2 metres in 40 years has been recorded[185]. The species has been cultivated for timber in Italy[50].
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].
For further Abies cephalonica gardening information click on one of the blue links below 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'. View their bibliography

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