Balsam Fir

Scientific name

Abies balsamea

Description

The Balsam Fir is a medium-sized coniferous tree, which can reach heights of 10-25 m. Balsam Fir may also be referred to as Canada Balsam, Eastern Fir, or Bracted Balsam Fir. This species of tree is conical in shape, with resin blisters on older trunks. Balsam Firs produce sticky, dark, upright and erect cones which shed seeds during the fall, while cone structures remain on the tree. Balsam Firs have shallow roots and have been known to blow over easily. This species produces needles which are alternate, flat and narrow. Their dark green needles have rounded or notched tips, two white lines underneath, and are splayed in two ranks on the twig.

Planting conditions

Balsam Fir prefers moist soils, but is also tolerant of wet conditions. It is also shade tolerant and can be planted in all light conditions. Balsam Fir thrives in sandy or loamy soils with an acidic or neutral pH. Balsam Fir can naturally be found growing in conifer forests, mixed wood forests, and swamps.

Details

• Plant height:
  • Any
  • Over 3m
• Moisture level:
  • Normal
  • Moist
  • Wet
• Light conditions:
  • Full sun
  • Partial sun
  • Shade
• Soil type:
  • Sandy
  • Loamy
• pH:
  • Acidic
  • Normal
• Depth:
  • Potted
  • Bareroot
• Eco Zone:
  • 1a
  • 1b
  • 2a
  • 2b
  • 3a
  • 3b
  • 4a
  • 4b
  • 5a
  • 5b
  • 6a
  • 6b
• Plant type:
  • Tree
• Height:
  • 10-25m
• Spread:
  • 5m