Red Fir
Abies amabilisfam. Pinaceae
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Pl. F697 — Abies amabilis
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IOverview
Overview
Red Fir (Abies amabilis) is a member of the Pinaceae family and thrives in the cooler regions of Alaska, British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington. This tree is known for its ornamental value and edible parts, including inner bark and shoots. It prefers moist conditions and can grow to heights of 30 meters. Red Fir enjoys a range of soil types, from light sandy to heavy clay, and thrives in partial sun to full shade. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various landscapes while providing a source of sustenance through its edible components.
Quick answers
What is Red Fir?
Red Fir (Abies amabilis) is a member of the Pinaceae family and thrives in the cooler regions of Alaska, British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington. This tree is known for its ornamental value and edible parts, including inner bark and shoots.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Red Fir thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-8 and grows up to 30 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid waterlogged conditions. Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings from inner bark and shoots.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Red Fir for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Red Fir in a suitable location and basic care to ensure its healthy growth.
- 1
What you'll need
Red Fir saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Red Fir in early spring or late fall when the soil is moist and temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0; amend as needed for your local conditions.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant Red Fir saplings into prepared soil, ensuring they are planted at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide partial shade, especially during hot summer months. Water deeply once or twice a week depending on rainfall and weather conditions.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young branches to shape the tree; avoid harvesting inner bark as it is not commonly done for this species.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting in full sun, overwatering, neglecting to provide partial shade during hot weather, and harvesting inner bark. Ensure proper planting depth and avoid damaging roots.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Inner barkShoots
Edible uses: Gum, Tea
Other uses:GumLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 1 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 1 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)United Kingdom
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Oregon, Washington
XSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Pinaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Pinaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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