Fraser fir

Abies fraseri

The Fraser fir is a true fir species originating in the Appalachian mountains of the eastern United States. One of the most popular species in the U.S. and Canada. Fraser firs have soft, deep green needles with striped white undersides and branches that are firm and angled slightly upwards. This species makes a great, low-mess Christmas tree as the needle retention is very good and the scent is sweet and strong even after weeks on display.

Origin and climate

In the wild, the Fraser fir only grows in limited areas of the Appalachian Mountains, United States, at elevations of 1200m and up.

In America, It is currently considered an endangered species, mostly because of the introduction of a European insect called the Balsam woolly adelgid. This invasive species feeds on its sap and releases toxins that impair water movement inside the tree.

Growth

Fraser firs grow between 20 and 25cm a year. As with all conifers, the growth is fastest when the tree is young (3 to 10 years) and slows down as it reaches maturity. It takes them from 7 to 10 years to reach a size of 180cm (6 feet), at which point they are ready to be harvested as Christmas trees.

In the wild, they usually grow to between 10 and 15m although some individuals have been seen to grow up to 25m.

Tending and care

Fraser firs like acidic (pH 5-6), moist and well-drained ground. They thrive in cooler climates with frosty/snowy winters. This species does not tolerate heat above 40 degrees Celsius and should be sheltered and watered well on hot days. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging or in heavy soils with poor drainage as Fraser firs are extremely susceptible to fungal root rots.

As a Christmas tree the Fraser fir is long lasting and has great characteristics all round. Display in water for best results although trees will maintain great display characteristics even without water for a few weeks. With a fresh cut applied to the base on arrival at home and placement in a stand with water, Fraser firs will last 4-6 weeks or more looking as fresh as the day they were cut.