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. procera are commonly known as Noble firs. They are native to the Siskiyou Mountains in California, northern mountains in Oregon and Washington. They are similar to A. magnifica in appearance. They grow to heights of 90-200 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide in the wild. They have short, stiff branches and 1 inch long blue-green needles. They also have long cones, approximately 6-10 inches long, and 3 inches wide.
| Plant Types: | Perennial, Tree |
| Light: | Full Sun |
| Height: | 50 feet to 100 feet |
| Width: | 15 feet to 25 feet |
| Zones: | 5a to 6b |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Special Features: | Attractive foliage, 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.