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Description
Abies Fraseri, commonly known as Fraser fir, is a coniferous evergreen tree that is native to the eastern United States. This tree is a member of the Pinaceae family and can grow up to 80 feet tall. It has a narrow and conical shape with dense branches that are covered with dark green needles. The needles are about 1 inch long and have a silver underside, making them appear to shimmer in the sunlight. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and scaly with age.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Abies |
Appearance
The Fraser fir has a narrow, conical shape with branches that are densely covered in dark green needles. The needles are about 1 inch long and have a silver underside. The tree produces cones that are about 4 inches long and have a purplish-brown color. The bark of the tree is gray-brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and scaly with age.
Care Guide
Water: Fraser firs prefer moist, well-drained soil. Water the tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Fraser firs prefer acidic, well-drained soil. Avoid planting the tree in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight: Fraser firs prefer full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Fraser firs are hardy in zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fraser firs are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Balsam woolly adelgid
- Spider mites
- Bagworms
- Rhizosphaera needle cast
- Phytophthora root rot
Habitat
Fraser firs are native to the eastern United States, specifically the Appalachian Mountains. They grow in high-elevation forests and are often found in areas with cool, moist climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fraser firs be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Fraser firs can be grown in containers, but they will require regular watering and fertilization.
Q: How often should Fraser firs be pruned?
A: Fraser firs do not require regular pruning, but they can be pruned to maintain their shape or to remove dead or damaged branches.
Q: Are Fraser firs deer-resistant?
A: No, Fraser firs are not deer-resistant and may be damaged by deer browsing.
Q: Can Fraser firs be used as Christmas trees?
A: Yes, Fraser firs are commonly used as Christmas trees due to their attractive appearance and pleasant fragrance.
Related Plants
- Abies balsamea (Balsam fir)
- Abies concolor (White fir)
- Abies grandis (Grand fir)
- Abies lasiocarpa (Subalpine fir)
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2011). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Grimm, W. C., & McDonald, G. I. (1985). Fraser fir: A candidate for Christmas tree culture. USDA Forest Service General Technical Report SE-38.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Abies fraseri. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279364
