Abies mariesii aka Marie's Fir

Abies mariesii, or Maries fir, is an evergreen tree from Japan. It belongs to the pine family, Pinaceae. Its native range lies on Honshu, Japan's main island. It grows on cool, wet mountain slopes. Recorded sites range from 1,970 to 8,530 feet [600–2,600 metres] above sea level. This mountain habitat helps explain its taste for cool, moist sites.

The tree reaches about 66 feet [20 metres] tall. Its spread can reach about 33 feet [10 metres]. It keeps its leaves through the year and grows slowly. In Britain, yearly height gains average less than one foot [0.3 metres]. Dense shade slows its growth still more. Its size suits a woodland canopy where space allows. Plants For A Future also values it as an ornamental tree. Allow room for its full height and width when choosing a site.

This fir bears male and female flowers on the same tree. Wind carries the pollen, and seeds ripen in October. It can grow in sun, light shade, or deep woodland shade. Young trees cope well with shade. It prefers moist ground but does not suit waterlogged soil. Sandy soil, loam, and clay can all support it. It also grows well in heavy clay. Mildly acid to neutral soil suits it, with a preference for slight acidity. The reported lower preferred pH is about 5.

A north-facing slope is a favoured position for this tree. Plants For A Future reports its best British growth in Perthshire valleys. The source gives a USDA hardiness range of zones 5–9. Even so, late frost can harm fresh shoots. A site screened from early morning sun helps protect new growth. The tree does not tolerate polluted air. These limits matter when choosing a garden site, despite its broad shade tolerance.

Its wood is light and strong, with a straight grain. It takes a good polish and has several practical uses. These include building work, pulp, and utensils. No edible or medicinal uses are known to Plants For A Future. The same source lists no known hazards. That report does not prove every part is safe to eat. It reports no weed potential for this species.