Abies procera Seeds | Noble Fir
LATIN NAME: Abies procera
COMMON NAME: Noble Fir
Plant Profile
Noble Fir (Abies procera) is a magnificent evergreen conifer of the pine family (Pinaceae), native to the Cascade and Coast ranges of the northwestern United States. It reaches 40-70 m, with blue-green, upswept needles and large, whisker-bracted cones high in the crown. Long-lived and slow to mature, it is prized for Christmas trees, greenery and some of the finest structural timber of any true fir.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the Abies group, Abies procera draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Its behaviour in gardens is well recorded, thanks to a long history in cultivation.
Uses & Benefits
Noble Fir works well in borders, containers and dedicated beds. Noble fir is widely regarded as the premium Christmas tree species in North America, commanding higher prices for its sturdy branches, which hold heavier ornaments than softer-branched firs, and its excellent needle retention. Its lightweight yet strong timber is milled for general construction, and it is also cut and used extensively in floral and wreath-making industry, where its stiff, long-lasting branches and attractive blue-green colour are especially prized. Once it has its roots down, it more or less looks after itself.
True firs give aromatic oleoresins: Siberian and balsam fir needle oils are classic respiratory aromatherapy materials for steam inhalation, and fir bud syrups are a traditional European cough comfort. The timber frames buildings and the needles once saved sailors from scurvy.
Growing from Seed
Raising Noble Fir from seed is straightforward. Cold, moist stratification before sowing helps bring seed up evenly, after which a loose, well-drained, humus-rich mix suits it well. Bright, filtered light and steady, moderate moisture support strong early growth, and because this is a naturally vigorous, sturdy species, young seedlings soon begin to show strong, evenly spaced branching that makes mature tree so distinctive. Scatter the seed evenly over a loose seed compost, cover to no more than its own depth, and keep the pot moist and bright. Grow the youngsters on steadily in pots until well rooted, then move them to their final positions.
Our Take
Noble Fir is the kind of plant that rewards a permanent spot. Minor errors in timing or watering rarely cost the grower the crop.
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