Abies amabilis aka Pacific Silver Fir

Taxonomy

Genus Abies Family Pinaceae Order Pinales Class Pinopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Abies amabilis, commonly known as the Pacific silver fir, is a large, conical, evergreen conifer tree native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It can reach heights of 20 - 30m and is also referred to as the white fir, red fir, lovely fir, Amabilis fir, Cascades fir, or silver fir. The species name, derived from Latin, translates to 'lovely'. This species has new shoots covered in pale hairs, spherical resinous buds, and crowded, 2 - 3cm long needles borne densely on the upper surface of each shoot. The needles spread forwards in two rows, neatly covering the branchlet. The Pacific silver fir produces purple female cones that ripen to brown and measure 9 - 15cm in length. These cones are ovoid to cylindrical and have hidden bracts. Additionally, the Pacific Silver Fir can be cultivated as a rare houseplant. It requires regular watering and thrives best in long-lasting, direct light, preferably positioned within a foot of a window. This plant prefers soil that retains moisture well and does not typically require added fertilizers if repotted each time it doubles in size.

Common names

Pacific Silver Fir, White Fir, Red Fir, Lovely Fir, Amabilis Fir

How to care for Pacific Silver Fir

Water

Pacific Silver Fir should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Pacific Silver Fir requires special care to keep it thriving. Its sensitivity to dry soil means that you need to be especially careful when it comes to selecting the right potting soil. Look for a soil that will retain moisture, but is also well-draining. A good potting soil should have plenty of organic material, such as coco coir or sphagnum moss, which will help to keep the soil moist and provide extra nutrition for your plant. When planting your Red Fir, make sure to mix the soil with some compost or manure to give it an extra boost of nutrients. Additionally, you should water your plant often to ensure that the soil remains moist. With the right care and attention, your Pacific Silver Fir will bloom beautifully in your home.

Toxicity

The toxicity level of this plant has not been officially confirmed by Ploi. If there is a possibility of ingestion of plant material with an uncertain toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth rate of Pacific Silver Fir is slow and it doesn't necessitate additional fertilizing. By changing the soil in its pot annually, the plant should be provided with adequate nutrition. It is crucial to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Pacific Silver Fir’s native range is North-western N. America - Alaska to Oregon.

More info:
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More Species in Abies Genus

Abies firma Japanese Fir

Abies concolor Colorado Fir

Abies kawakamii Formosan Fir

Abies mariesii Marie's Fir

Abies homolepis Nikko Fir

Abies pindrow Pindrow Fir

Abies religiosa Sacred Fir

Abies alba Common Silver Fir

Abies amabilis Pacific Silver Fir

Abies pinsapo Spanish Fir