Abies are evergreen conifers with long narrow leaves, borne in whorls on the branches. They are best grown in full sun, planted in a moist, fertile soil with good drainage. Most Abies are long lived, and some species can reach heights above 60m.
Abies balsamea, one of the much smaller and shorter-lived species, commonly used as a Christmas tree. It has has dense, fresh green needle-like leaves, an attractive grey bark, scented resin and bears cylindrical cones that are purplish in colour.
Grow Abies balsamea in moist but well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water regularly during hot dry weather.
