Though often confused with spruce trees, firs are recognizable by their tall, symmetrical shape, large cones (or spiky stalks after ripening) and soft green or gray/blue needles. Most are North American in origin, and grow best in mountainous climates. Firs attract birds, and some varieties are suitable for creating bonsais.
A. fraseri are native to the Appalachian Mountains in the southeastern United States. They grow to heights of 30-40 feet tall and widths of 20-25 feet wide. They have a slow growth rate and are pyramidal in shape, with horizontal branches.
| Plant Types: | Perennial, Tree |
| Light: | Partial Shade to Full Sun |
| Height: | 30 feet to 50 feet |
| Width: | 15 feet to 20 feet |
| Zones: | 4a to 7a |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attracts birds, North American native |
| Shape: | Pyramidal |
| Fertilizer: | Miracle-Gro® Shake 'n Feed® Continuous Release All Purpose Plant Food, Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food |
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Allow ample room when planting firs as some species can get 20' wide at the base.
Most firs grow slowly in hot and dry climates at low elevations. Height ranges from dwarfed varieties (avg. 2'-3', 'Abies balsamea') to gigantic (upwards of 200', 'Abies nobilis').
Fir trees are planted for screens and windbreaks. White fir is often planted as an ornamental in large parks.
Most firs need moderate to regular water.
Pruning is usually unnecessary.
Aphids can be a problem for new growth on shoots.