Fraser Fir (Abies fraseri)

Abies fraseri, the Fraser Fir, is an evergreen conifer native to small pockets of the southern Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Tennessee, extending into the southwestern corner of Virginia and far northern Georgia. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 1350 to 2100 metres above sea level. Although rare in nature, the Fraser Fir is one of the most popular Christmas trees sold in commerce today and is commonly grown on tree farms.

The Fraser Fir is a narrow, pyramidal, evergreen conifer with a spire-like crown. It grows to 10 to 15 metres tall over time, with a spread of 3 to 7 metres. It is very similar to Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea), the primary difference being in the bracts of the cone scales. Flattened, shiny, dark green needles (2.5cm long) are white-banded beneath. Needles are densely borne on resinous stems. Resin blisters may appear on the bark, giving rise to a regional common name of she-balsam for this tree. Seed cones are purple with conspicuously protruding bracts. As is distinctive with the firs, the cones appear upright on the branches.

Best grown in rich, moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Best in full sun. Trees grow poorly in heavy clay soils. Trees are native to cool, often foggy, mountain climates and are not recommended for planting in hot and humid summer conditions.