Noble Fir

(Abies procera)

Noble Fir (Abies procera)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Abies procera, commonly known as Noble Fir, is an evergreen tree native to the moist coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest in the Western USA, particularly in the Cascade Range and the Coast Range. It is a majestic tree with a narrow conic crown that can reach up to 70 meters (230 ft) in height and 2 meters (6 ft 7 in) in trunk diameter. The bark on young trees is smooth and gray with resin blisters, transitioning to red-brown, rough, and fissured on mature trees. The inner bark is reddish. Noble Fir is notable for its erect cones with purple scales, which are almost completely hidden by long exserted yellow-green bract scales; these cones ripen to brown and disintegrate in the fall to release winged seeds. However, viable seeds are produced infrequently, typically only every few years. The species can live for up to 200 years.

Noble Fir is valued for its grand stature and is often used as a Christmas tree due to its symmetrical shape and stiff branches that hold ornaments well. It is also planted in large gardens, parks, and as a reforestation species. In cultivation, it requires full sun and well-drained soils, preferring moist conditions but tolerating drier sites once established. It has a slow-growing root system that can adapt to rocky soils. While Noble Fir is very susceptible to fire, its typical moist habitat offers some protection. It is relatively resistant to wind damage and has few issues with insects or diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for suitable climates.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-50 feet
  • Width: 30-40 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium, High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

Moist coniferous forests of the Pacific Northwest, particularly in the Cascade Range and the Coast Range

Other Names

Common Names: Red Fir, Christmas Tree, White Fir, Edel-Tanne, Abeto Noble, Sapin Noble, Nemes Jegenyefenyo, Abete Nobile, Abete Bianco Americano, Edele Zilverspar

Scientific Names: , Abies procera, Abies nobilis, Picea nobilis, Abies nobilis f. glauca, Pinus nobilis, Abies nobilis var. glauca, Abies nobilis var. argentea, Abies nobilis var. compacta, Abies nobilis var. glaucophylla

GBIF Accepted Name: Abies procera Rehd.