Abies fraseri (Fraser Fir)

Abies fraseri (Fraser Fir) is a medium-sized evergreen conifer of narrow, pyramidal habit with a spire-like crown and resinous stems densely clad with flattened, short, turpentine-scented needles, shiny dark green above with two silver bands beneath. The seed cones, up to 3 in. long (7 cm), are dark purple when young turning light brown with conspicuously protruding bracts. Held upright along the branches, they create a lovely contrast against the deep green foliage. A moderate grower, 6-12 in. per year (15-30 cm), its gray-brown bark is thin and smooth, with numerous resin blisters on young trees, becoming fissured and scaly with age. Fraser Fir is one of the most popular Christmas trees sold in commerce today. Its mild fragrance, shape, strong limbs, and ability to retain its soft needles for a long time when cut make it one of the best trees for this purpose. An excellent accent choice for the home landscape.

• Grows up to 30-50 ft. high (9-15 m) and 10-25 ft. wide (3-8 m).
• Performs best in full sun or part shade in rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils. Best in full sun. Performs best in cooler climates and does not tolerate heat and humidity.
• Keep an eye out for aphids and adelgids and honey fungus.
• No pruning required.
• Propagate by seed or grafting
• Native to the southeastern United States.