SafePlants

Abies magnifica (Red Fir, Silvertip Fir, California Red Fir)

Abies magnifica, commonly known as Red Fir, Silvertip Fir, or California Red Fir, is a majestic evergreen tree native to the mountains of western North America.

Considerations for Pets

• This species is commonly used as a Christmas tree.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Abies magnifica A. Murray bis.
• Common Names: Red Fir, Silvertip Fir, California Red Fir, Shasta Fir, Shasta Red Fir, Western Fir, White Fir
• Family: Pinaceae (Pine family)

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the mountains of southwest Oregon and California in the United States.
• Specifically found in the Sierra Nevada from Kern County, California, north to the southern Cascade Range of Oregon, and in the Coast Ranges from Lake County, California.
• Often dominates large areas of high country.
• Found in canyons, valleys, and mountains.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A large evergreen tree, typically reaching 40-60 meters (131-197 feet) tall with a trunk diameter of 2 meters (6.6 feet), but can rarely reach 76 meters (249 feet) tall and 3 meters (9.8 feet) in diameter.
• Bark color of old trees gives rise to the name "Red Fir."

Subspecies and Varieties

• Abies magnifica shastensis (Shasta Red Fir): A large tree and defining species.
• Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii var. nov. (Critchfield Red Fir): Found in the southernmost Sierra Nevada populations of California Red Fir.

Ecological Role

• Red Fir forests are a major component of the forest cover of the Sierra Nevada.
• Dominates large areas of high country that are major watersheds, particularly in California.
• Important timber tree in the high Sierras of California. Used for construction lumber and pulp. Also popular as Christmas trees.