White Fir

(Abies concolor)

White Fir (Abies concolor)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Abies concolor, commonly known as White Fir, is an evergreen coniferous tree native to the mountainous regions of western North America, specifically the Sierra Nevada, the Cascades, the southern Rocky Mountains, and isolated ranges in Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Mexico. It thrives at elevations between 900–3,400 meters (3,000–11,200 ft) in mixed coniferous forests and is adapted to a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. White Fir can reach a height of 30-50 feet and a width of 15-25 feet, with a conical shape that becomes more rounded with age. The tree is notable for its attractive bluish-green needles and smooth, gray bark that becomes furrowed as it matures.

White Fir is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its pleasing conical form, and is often used in parks and large gardens. It is also popular as a Christmas tree due to its symmetrical shape and good needle retention. This species is relatively low-maintenance, tolerating a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. It requires medium amounts of water and well-drained soil. While generally pest-resistant, White Fir can be susceptible to fir engraver beetles and white pine blister rust in some areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-50 feet
  • Width: 15-25 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Mountainous regions of western North America, specifically the Sierra Nevada, the Cascades, the southern Rocky Mountains, and isolated ranges in Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: California White Fir, Colorado Fir, Low’s Fir, Balsam Fir, Concolor Fir, Silver Fir, White Balsam, Colorado White Fir, Rocky Mountain White Fir, Jedle Ojínená

Scientific Names: , Abies concolor, Abies lowiana, Pinus concolor, Abies concolor var. lowiana, Abies concolor var. concolor, Abies concolor f. atroviolacea, Abies concolor subsp. lowiana, Abies lowiana var. viridula, Picea concolor

GBIF Accepted Name: Abies concolor (Gordon) Lindl. ex Hildebr.