Noble Fir (Abies procera)

Abies procera, known as the Noble Fir, is an evergreen conifer native to the United States Pacific Northwest. It is the largest of the true firs, has a narrow conic crown, and can grow up to 70 meters in its natural range. It is a long-lived tree, often living 200 years. The species is native to the Cascade Range and Pacific Coast Ranges of western Washington and Oregon, as well as the extreme northwest of California. It is a high-altitude tree, typically occurring at altitudes of 300–1,500 metres, often above 600 metres altitude. It grows best in cool, humid areas, and a wide range of soil types. The soil needs to be cool, moist, and well-drained. Noble fir prefers deep soil but can sometimes grow in thin, rocky soils. It does not tolerate soil with a pH above 6.5 and is unsuitable for hot, humid climates. The Noble fir is a low-maintenance tree, provided it’s grown in a suitable climate and location similar to its native habitat.

The Noble Fir will grow best in an area with year-round precipitation and does not respond to dry periods until it is fully established and at least 20 years old. It also suits areas with winter snowfall and summers with adequate rainfall. Expect heights of 15 to 20 metres in most Australian garden settings with a spread of 3 to 4 metres.