How to Grow Abies Concolor - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Abies concolor is a species of fir tree in the pinaceae family. The tree is native to North America, where it is found in the Rocky Mountains from central British Columbia south to Colorado, New Mexico, and Arizona. The tree grows to a height of 30-40 m (98-131 ft), with a trunk diameter of 0.5-1 m (1.6-3.3 ft). The leaves are needle-like, 2-3 cm (0.79-1.18 in) long, and blue-green in color. The cones are cylindrical, 6-8 cm (2.4-3.1 in) long, and brown in color.

How to Grow Abies Concolor - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • White fir
  • Concolor fir
  • Rocky Mountain fir
  • Lowland fir
  • California fir

Basic info

  • Abies concolor is a species of evergreen tree in the pine family.
  • The tree is native to North America, where it ranges from southern Canada to central Mexico.
  • Abies concolor is a popular Christmas tree species in the United States.
  • The tree is also known as the white fir, silver fir, and red fir.
  • Abies concolor grows to a height of 50–80 feet (15–24 m).
  • The tree has a straight trunk and cylindrical crown.
  • The leaves are glossy dark green and 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long.
  • The tree produces cones that are 3–6 inches (8–15 cm) long.
  • Abies concolor is an important source of timber in North America.
  • The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant.

Related plant:
Abies Nordmanniana

Planting Process

  1. For abies concolor, first step is to grow the tree in an area with full sun.
  2. The tree will do best in slightly acidic soils, so be sure to test your soil before planting.
  3. Dig a hole that is twice the width of the tree’s root ball and just as deep.
  4. Gently remove the tree from its container and place it in the hole.
  5. Backfill the hole with soil, tamping it down as you go.
  6. Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
  7. Place a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the tree’s base, keeping it away from the trunk.
  8. Water the tree regularly during its first growing season, providing 1-2 inches of water per week.
  9. Fertilize the tree annually with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreens.
  10. Prune the tree annually to maintain its desired shape.

Related plant:
Abies Koreana

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, Abies concolor grows best in deep, moist, well-drained soils, but it is quite tolerant of other soil types. It prefers a cool, moist climate, but can also adapt to hot, dry conditions. The root system is shallow and fibrous, so it is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.

Light requirement

Like the other fir trees, the subalpine fir does best in full sun but can tolerate some shade. It grows quickly in rich, moist soil but is also adaptable to other conditions. This evergreen tree is a popular choice for landscaping because of its beautiful blue-green needles and pretty cones.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition of Abies concolor is one of the most important environmental factors affecting the growth, development, and survival of the species. The optimum temperature range for the growth of Abies concolor is 15-20°C, and the species can tolerate a minimum temperature of -30°C. The Abies concolor tree is found in North America, Europe, and Asia. The tree typically grows to a height of 30-40 m, with a diameter of 1-2 m.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 60% and above. It can tolerate lower humidity but not for long periods of time. If the plant is not getting enough humidity, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off.

The Fertilizer

The fertilizer, this kind of plant food is important to the growth of the Abies Concolor. The roots of the tree need to be able to reach down deep into the ground to find the water and nutrients that it needs to survive. The roots of the tree also need to be able to hold on to the soil so that the tree does not fall over.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your Abies concolor healthy and looking its best. Pruning not only helps to shape the plant, but can also remove diseased or damaged branches. It is best to prune in the late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

The Propagation

Propagation : Abies concolor can be propagated by seed, but it is a slow process. It is best to sow the seeds in the fall in a cold frame. The seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location when they are 2-3 years old. Cuttings can also be taken from young trees in the summer.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate information is based on height growth. In general, these trees grow quickly when young, but growth slows with age. The average height growth rate for this species is about 1.2 feet (0.37 meters) per year. However, there is considerable variation among individual trees, with some growing much faster and some much slower.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are nutrient deficiency, pests, and diseases. nutrient deficiency can be caused by improper watering or soil conditions. pests can be controlled with proper pesticide application. diseases can be controlled with proper fungicide application.

List to Know

  • Make sure to plant your abies concolor in an area that gets plenty of sunlight.
  • Abies concolor prefer well-drained soil. Add organic matter to the soil to help with drainage.
  • Water your abies concolor regularly. Do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
  • Fertilize your plant every few weeks with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.
  • Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth.
  • Protect your plant from strong winds.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases. Treat immediately if you notice any problems.
  • Harvest your plant when the needles are a deep green color.
  • Dry your plant completely before storing it.
  • Enjoy your abies concolor plant for many years to come!

Similar Plants

  • Abies cephalonica - asian silver fir
  • Abies balsamea - balsam fir
  • Abies alba - european silver fir
  • Abies amabilis - subalpine fir
  • Abies balsamoth - terebinth fir
  • Abies alba ssp. alba - european silver fir
  • Abies balsamea ssp. balsamea - balsam fir
  • Abies balsamea ssp. phanerolepis - balsam fir
  • Abies balsamea ssp. triloba - balsam fir
  • Abies balsamea ssp. virescens - balsam fir

Source:
Concolor Fir, Abies concolor - Master Gardener Program
"Abies concolor" "Julia Fitzpatrick-Cooper ... - College of DuPage
Abies concolor - Ohio State University

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category