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Description
Abies Bracteata, commonly known as the Santa Lucia fir, is a coniferous tree native to California. It is a member of the Pinaceae family and typically grows up to 30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 90 centimeters. The tree is known for its narrow crown, blue-green needles, and large cones that can reach up to 25 centimeters in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Coniferophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Abies |
Appearance
The Santa Lucia fir has a narrow, conical crown with horizontal branches that are covered in blue-green needles. The needles are about 2-3 centimeters long and have a silvery underside. The cones are large and can reach up to 25 centimeters in length. They are cylindrical in shape and have a green or purple color when young, turning brown as they mature. The bark is smooth and gray when young, becoming rough and furrowed with age.
Care Guide
The Santa Lucia fir prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9 and can tolerate some drought once established. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in the winter to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain the desired shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Santa Lucia fir is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and bark beetles. It can also be affected by root rot and canker diseases. To prevent infestations, spray the tree with insecticidal soap or oil in the spring and summer. To prevent diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage.
Habitat
The Santa Lucia fir is endemic to the central coast of California, where it grows in mixed conifer forests at elevations of 600-1800 meters. It is often found growing in association with other conifers such as the ponderosa pine, sugar pine, and incense cedar.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Santa Lucia fir a good tree for landscaping?
A: Yes, the Santa Lucia fir can be a good choice for landscaping as it has an attractive appearance and is relatively easy to care for.
Q: Can the Santa Lucia fir grow in hot climates?
A: The Santa Lucia fir prefers cooler climates and may not do well in hot and dry conditions.
Q: How long does it take for the Santa Lucia fir to reach maturity?
A: The Santa Lucia fir can take up to 50 years to reach maturity.
Q: Is the Santa Lucia fir a threatened species?
A: Yes, the Santa Lucia fir is listed as a threatened species by the state of California.
Related Plants
- Abies magnifica
- Abies concolor
- Abies grandis
- Abies procera
References
- Arno, S. F., & Gyer, J. R. (1973). The Santa Lucia fir: A bibliography. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station.
- Farjon, A. (2010). A handbook of the world’s conifers (Vol. 1). Brill.
- Moore, G. M. (1988). The Santa Lucia fir. American Conifer Society Journal, 24(2), 63-67.
