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silver fir
Scientific Name: Abies alba
Family: Pinaceae
Category: Gymnosperm
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
European Silver Fir (Abies alba)
The European silver fir, scientifically known as Abies alba, is a majestic evergreen tree native to the mountains of Europe. It's also commonly referred to as silver fir or white fir.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Abies alba
- Common Names: European silver fir, silver fir, white fir
- Family: Not explicitly stated in the text, but it belongs to the Pinaceae (Pine) family.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to the mountains of Europe, ranging from the Pyrenees to Normandy and east to the Alps.
- Specific mention of its presence in the Ardkinglas Woodland Garden in Inveraray.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- The European Silver Fir is one of the tallest growing conifers in Europe, reaching a maximum height of 67 meters (220 feet).
- It is an evergreen tree growing to 45 m (147ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a fast rate.
- Veitch's Silver Fir is described as having a graceful conical form.
- Has deep tap roots that require deep, good-quality soil and moderately moist subsoil.
Ecological Role
- In Central European mountains, it is noted as the most heavily browsed conifer where Red and roe deer reduce consumption of silver fir.
Interactions with other organisms
- Red and roe deer browsing is specifically mentioned.
Further Information
- Taxonomic information can be found in "A Handbook of the World's Conifers" by A. Farjon (2010).
- Information on biology and forest management can be found in freely available PDF technical guidelines.
- ARKive has photos and facts about the Algerian silver fir.