Spanish Fir

(Abies pinsapo)

Spanish Fir (Abies pinsapo)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Abies pinsapo, commonly known as Spanish Fir, is an evergreen conifer that can reach heights of 20–30 meters with a conic crown that may become irregular as the tree matures. It is native to the mountains of southern Spain and northern Morocco, where it grows in cool, humid conditions at high elevations. The leaves of the Spanish Fir are 1.5–2 cm long, radially arranged around the shoots, and are a striking glaucous pale blue-green with broad bands of whitish wax on both sides, which help to reflect sunlight and conserve water. The cones are cylindrical, measuring 9–18 cm in length, and transition from greenish-pink to purple before maturity; they are notable for their smooth texture as the bract scales are short and not exserted. Upon maturity, the cones disintegrate to release the winged seeds.

The Spanish Fir is valued for its unique foliage color and texture, making it a distinctive choice for ornamental plantings in parks and large gardens. It is also used for reforestation in its native range due to its adaptability to mountainous conditions. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade, consistent medium moisture, and well-drained soils to thrive. While it is not a fast-growing species, its slow growth rate contributes to a dense and shapely form. Gardeners should be aware that Abies pinsapo can suffer from root rot if planted in poorly drained soils and may be susceptible to pests such as aphids and scale insects. It is also important to note that this species is not tolerant of pollution or salt, limiting its use in more urban or coastal environments.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 50-75 feet
  • Width: 15-30 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: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

native to the mountains of southern Spain and northern Morocco, where it grows in cool, humid conditions at high elevations

Other Names

Common Names: Hedgehog Fir, Andalusische Tanne, Spanische Tanne, Abeto De España, Pino Pinsapo, Pinsapo, Sapin D’Espagne, Abete Di Spagna, Spaanse Zilverspar, Abeto-Espanhol

Scientific Names: , Abies pinsapo, Abies pinsapo var. glauca, Abies pinsapo var. argentea, Abies pinsapo f. argentea, Abies pinsapo f. glauca, Abies pinsapo f. pendula, Abies pinsapo var. pendula, Picea pinsapo var. argentea, Picea pinsapo var. glauca

GBIF Accepted Name: Abies pinsapo Boiss.