SafePlants

Nikko Fir (Abies homolepis)

The Nikko fir, scientifically known as Abies homolepis, is an evergreen coniferous tree appreciated for its ornamental value and ability to tolerate pollution. It is also known in Japanese as ?????? (urajiro-momi).

Considerations for Pets

• Nikko firs, like other conifers, produce essential oils. Essential oils extracted from the plant are used in aromatherapy.
• Nikko firs have cones, needles, and other parts that may present a choking hazard if ingested.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Abies homolepis Siebold & Zucc.
• Common Name: Nikko Fir
• Family: Pinaceae (Pine Family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the mountains of central and southern Honshu and Shikoku, Japan.
• Found in cool, wet mountainsides and mountain forests.
• Prefers the edges of swamps and moist forests.
• Also found in Kyushu, Japan.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Evergreen coniferous tree.
• Maintains a pyramidal form into old age.
• Typically grows to 30-50 feet tall, but can reach 100-120 feet (30-40 meters) at maturity.
• Glossy, dark-green needles.
• Purple cones when young.
• Deeply grooved branchlets.
• Slow-growing.

Ecological Role

• In Japan, it grows in woodlands alongside Larix kaempferi, Fagus crenata, and other fir species.

Quirky Facts

• One source describes Nikko Fir essential oil as giving you “music that is sharp and pungent and cleansing, with a slight air of loneliness and high places”.

Further Information

• The German Dendrological Society (Deutsche Dendrologische Gesellschaft) presented Arboretum Mustila with Nikko fir seedlings.
• Nikko Fir trees are registered in at least 4 different countries.