tree RHS AwardN. America Native

White Fir

Abies concolor

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated

Real-Time Pricing

Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

600 inches

Width

240 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Low to Average

Lifespan

Very Long-lived

Native To

Western North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Abies concolor is a large, evergreen coniferous tree native to the mountains of western North America, prized for its soft, silvery blue-green needles and symmetrical conical shape. Unlike many spruces, its needles are soft to the touch, flat, and curve upwards on the stem. The needles have a distinctive citrus or orange-peel scent when crushed.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

A highly ornamental conifer, admired for its soft, silvery blue-green needles, classic pyramidal shape, and smooth, light gray bark. It makes a beautiful year-round specimen.

When planted in a row, it creates an excellent screen or windbreak. It is also a very popular species for Christmas trees due to its needle retention, color, and fragrance.

Provides excellent cover and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife. The seeds are eaten by squirrels and some bird species.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun and rich, well-drained, acidic soil.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is slightly above ground level.
Backfill with native soil, tamping gently.
Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Apply a 3-inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Avoid planting in heavy, compacted clay soils or areas with poor drainage, as it is susceptible to root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide ample space for its mature size.
Protect from hot, drying winds if possible.
Water during establishment and extended dry periods.
Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or alkaline soils.
Avoid planting in hot, humid climates like the deep South.
Don't shear the tree; allow it to develop its natural conical form.
Do not pile mulch against the trunk.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Majestic specimen tree for large landscapesEffective screen or windbreakPopular choice for a living Christmas tree

Companion Plants

Picea pungens Pinus strobus Acer saccharum Fothergilla gardenii

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

White Fir questions

What zones can White Fir grow in?

White Fir is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is White Fir deer resistant?

Yes — White Fir is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does White Fir bloom?

White Fir typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does White Fir need full sun?

White Fir does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is White Fir drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), White Fir handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.