Abies nephrolepis, commonly known as Khingan fir, is an evergreen tree native to the cool temperate forests and mountainous regions of northeastern China, the Korean Peninsula, and southeastern Russia. It typically grows to a height of up to 98 feet (30 meters) with a narrow conic to columnar crown, making it a prominent feature of the landscape. The tree’s flat needle-like leaves are a glossy dark green on the upper surface, with two distinctive greenish-white stomatal bands on the underside. During the late spring to early summer, Khingan fir produces cylindrical cones that are 2-3 inches long and often very resinous, which can be a notable feature when present.

In cultivation, Khingan fir is valued for its attractive conical form and dense foliage, making it a popular choice for use as a specimen tree in large gardens and parks. It is also used for reforestation projects due to its fast growth rate. This species prefers full sun to partial shade and requires well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It is relatively low-maintenance but can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and diseases like root rot if not properly cared for. While not commonly available, cultivars such as ’Pendula’ with weeping branches may be found in specialized nurseries.CC BY-SA 4.0