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bristlecone fir
Scientific Name: Abies bracteata
Family: Pinaceae
Category: Gymnosperm
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Santa Lucia Fir (Abies bracteata)
The Santa Lucia Fir, also known as the Bristlecone Fir (Abies bracteata), is a rare and unique fir species.
Considerations for Pets
- This fir has spiny pointed leaves which could cause minor injury if handled roughly.
Considerations for Children
- This fir has spiny pointed leaves which could cause minor injury if handled roughly.
Common Names
- Santa Lucia Fir
- Bristlecone Fir
- Silver Fir
- Fringed Spruce
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Abies bracteata (D. Don) D. Don ex Poit.
- Family: Pinaceae (Pine Family)
- Synonyms: Abies bracteata (D. Don) Nutt.
Distribution and Habitat
- Confined to slopes and rocky canyons in the Santa Lucia Mountains of the central California coast, specifically in Monterey County.
- Restricted to five main locations within this region.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Known as the rarest fir in the world, with a slender, spire-like form.
- Grows slowly to a height of 90-150 feet (18.20m to 24.40m).
- Spread of 15' to 20' (4.60m to 6.00m).
- Has flattened needles that are stiff and dark green.
- Features cone scales that extend outward, giving it the name "Bristlecone Fir".
- Displays a narrow conical spirelike crown of short, slightly drooping branches.
- The leaves look like pointed leaf buds.
Ecological Role
- This tree is native to North America and specifically California.
Additional Information
- Growth rate: Slow
- Hardiness range: 7A - 8B
Resources
- ARKive: For photos and facts.
- CalPhotos: For photos of Abies bracteata.
- USDA Hardiness Zones: For the interactive native range distribution map.