Abies squamata aka Flaky Fir

Abies squamata, or flaky fir, is an evergreen conifer. It belongs to the pine family, Pinaceae. Its native range runs from eastern Tibet into China. It occurs in southern Gansu, western Sichuan, and southern Qinghai. It also grows in southeastern Tibet. There, it forms forests in very dry mountain regions. These forests lie at 11,800–15,100 feet [3,600–4,600 metres]. In gardens, its needs differ from what that dry habitat might suggest.

This tree has a narrow, upright form and keeps its needles year-round. RHS lists garden heights above 39 feet [12 metres]. Its stated spread is 13–26 feet [4–8 metres]. Under ideal conditions, it can reach 131 feet [40 metres]. RHS gives a maturity period of 20–50 years. Its size makes it a tree for sites with ample space. The bark is one of its main features. It peels in thin, paper-like layers, much like birch bark. The reddish-brown bark starts to develop around the sixth year.

Fine hairs cover the shoots, and new buds hold resin. These buds are reddish brown. The closely packed needles have a blue-green cast. Two pale stomatal lines mark the underside of each needle. Young seed cones are dark blue. In spring, they stand out against the pale foliage. The bark, needles, and cones provide several points of interest. Its upright shape also gives structure to a planting.

Grow flaky fir in full sun in a cool climate. It does best in deep soil that stays moist but drains well. RHS lists clay, loam, and sand as suitable soil types. Acid or neutral soil suits it, with slight acidity preferred. Both open and sheltered sites fall within its listed growing conditions. RHS rates its cold hardiness as H7. Plants For A Future lists USDA zones 5–9. Raise new plants from seed; routine pruning is not needed.

RHS suggests it for architectural planting and city or courtyard gardens. Plants For A Future also places it in woodland canopy plantings. Aphids and adelgids may attack it. Disease problems are few, though honey fungus can affect it. Its wood serves for house building, furniture, and pulp. Plants For A Future records no known food or medicinal uses. It also lists no known hazards, rather than confirming safety for every use.