Abies concolor

RHS Plant Profile
white fir

Other common names

Colorado fir, western white fir

Synonyms

Abies concolor var. concolor

Conifers Trees

Large, evergreen coniferous tree to 40m tall, with smooth grey bark, grooved and scaly on old trees, a conical crown and long slender blue- or grey-green needles. Cones are purple when young, turning to brown as they mature. Makes a nice specimen tree for a large space

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

Higher than 12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
Higher than 12 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H7

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Pinaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Bushy, Columnar upright
Genus
Abies are evergreen conifers, often very tall, with whorled branches bearing flattened, linear leaves, often whitish beneath, and on the upper branches, large cones which break up whilst attached to the tree
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
Western N America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in deep, neutral to slightly acidic, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun, with some shelter from cold winds. See conifer cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by seed, or grafting in winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance
  • Hedging and screens

Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to adelgids and aphids

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus