Abies koreana
Korean Fir

Description

General: Introduced in 1908, A. koreana is native to the isolated mountain regions of Korea. It is a slow growing evergreen tree reaching only about 30' high by 10' wide.

Leaves: Needles 1/2 - 3/4" long by 1/16- 1/12" wide tightly arranged along stem. Silvery grey in spring turning to a deep green with glaucous blue backing when mature. Two whitish stomatal bands divided by a thin green midrib line the underside. Notched or rounded at apex.

Cones: Deep bluish- purple, 2-3" long, 1" wide. A striking contrast to the deep green foliage.

Bark: Soft, smooth and grey with resin blisters. Reddish-brown inner bark.

Culture

Growing Conditions: Although A. koreana appears to be the most heat tolerant of all the firs, they prefer a colder climate situated in full sun with moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Light shade is also acceptable but foliage will not be as dense.

Maintenance: Pruning is not recommended except to eliminate a competing leader. As for the prostrate forms, any upright branches that may arise must be diligently removed.

Transplanting: Spring is optimal but can be dug any time of the year. Try to avoid this when in new or soft growth.

Propagation:: Seed

Hardiness
Zones 4- 7. Colder end of the spectrum preferred

Experience at Great Hill
No problems to speak of. We have several cultivars that do quite well here.

Attributes
From its deep purple, arguably blue cones in the spring, to its silvery, green-blue harmony of colors year round, this slow growing beauty is a wonderful specimen that should not be overlooked in the landscape.