SafePlants

White Fir (Abies concolor)

White fir, scientifically known as Abies concolor, is a majestic evergreen conifer native to the mountains of western North America. It's admired for its appealing aroma, needle retention, and sturdy branches, making it a popular choice as a Christmas tree.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions that Native Americans used white fir as a building material, implying that it may be fibrous or woody.
• White Fir essential oil is derived from the needles of the tree.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that Native Americans used white fir as a building material, implying that it may be fibrous or woody.
• White Fir essential oil is derived from the needles of the tree.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Abies concolor (Gord. & Glend.) Lindl. ex Hildebr.
• Common Names: White fir, Colorado white-fir, Concolor fir, Colorado fir, Rocky Mountain white fir, California white fir (var. lowiana), white balsam.
• Family: Pinaceae (Pine family)
• Synonyms: Picea concolor

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the mountains of western North America, including the western United States and parts of Mexico (Baja California).
• Found at elevations with long winters, moderate to heavy snowpacks, and short growing seasons.
• Can tolerate less than ideal growing environments, including semi-arid, hot, low elevation locations.
• Specifically mentioned as being planted in Iowa for ornamental and windbreak use.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• May reach heights of 130-150 feet in its native habitat, with a diameter of 3-4 feet.
• In landscape settings, it typically reaches a mature height of 40-75 feet.
• Young trees are strongly conical, while older trees develop a different shape.
• Needles are 2 to 3 inches long, slightly flattened, and can be silver-blue to silver-green.
• Needles have whitish bands on the undersides.

Uses

• Ornamental tree, valued for its concentric pyramidal shape and blue-cast foliage.
• Excellent Christmas tree due to its aroma, needle retention, and sturdy branches.
• Wood is used as construction lumber, often grouped with other fir and hemlock species.
• Essential oil is derived from the needles and used to support healthy joints, muscles, and respiratory function.
• Native Americans traditionally used it as a building material.

Quirky Facts

• The tree can live up to 300 years, making it a very large forest tree.
• White Fir essential oil contains a high d-limonene content.

Further Information

• Arborday.org offers a tree guide with information on size, height, growth rate, sun and soil preference.
• Monrovia provides details and information on their Blue Cloak White Fir variety.