Abies balsamea
Balsam fir, Balm of Gilead, Canada balsam
- Height × spread
- 0.3m – 0.6m × 0.3m – 1.5m
- Position
- Full sun
Availability
Please ask in store about availability
Many plants are seasonal. Call 01234 567890 to check current stock.
About this plant
Named after its fragrant resin, the Balsam fir is an evergreen tree for year round interest. Usually with silvery green or blue needles, in a range of sizes from large trees (4m+) to dwarf and low growing varieties that reach a height of 60cm. Upright varieties add structural interest and focal points in the garden, while low growing, spreading horizontal forms make good ground cover.
- Foliage colour
- Green
- Fruit colour
- Green
- Variegated
- No
- Scent
- Yes, some varieties
- Shape
- Cone, Dome
- Height
- 0.3m – 0.6m
- Spread
- 0.3m – 1.5m
- Season of interest
- Spring
- Evergreen
- Evergreen
- Garden style
- Small scale garden, Scented garden, Rock garden, Cottage garden
- Sun or shade
- Likes full sun, likes part shade
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam (normal)
- Soil pH
- Acid (ericaceous), Neutral
- Drainage
- Moisture retentive soil, Damp and wet soil, Well drained soil
- Winter hardiness
- Varies, most are hardy
- Borders & containers
- Borders
- Use for
- Structural
- Maintenance
- Easycare – low/no maintenance
- Hazards
- No
Spring
Spring - late · Outdoors
Feed young plants with slow release fertiliser
Spread a slow release fertiliser around the base of the plant to the edge of the foliage spread, so that it can feed the roots. It is helpful for this to be applied for several years.
This is a simple way to provide a nutrient boost until the plant becomes well established.
Spring-Autumn · Outdoors
Water to keep the soil moist
For best results, this plant needs soil that is always moist. Water deeply and regularly as soon as soil appears dry. Even for established plants in the ground, a dry week can cause problems with some soils. Check plants in pots more often, especially in hot weather. Or install an automatic irrigation system which will do the hard work for you, even when you are away on holiday.
Without regular watering some plants never fully regain their beauty.
Planting & general
Planting
Protect & support young trees
Attach a newly planted tree or tall shrub over 1m to a tree stake to give support and prevent windrock. Use a tree guard to stop tree bark being eaten by animals, especially in areas with deer - removing bark injures a tree and in worst case can kill it.
Found in
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