Mature Size of a Fraser Fir

Size

• The fraser fir tree grows to a mature height of 30 to 40 feet with a 20- to 25-foot spread. The tree has horizontal branches and develops a mature pyramidal form. Younger trees have a dense growth and texture but develop a more open canopy as they mature. In its natural habitat, the tree grows up to 80 feet tall with a 1 1/2-foot diameter. The branches are strong and pliable.

Description

• The tree has a dull green, smooth bark that ages to a brown color. Newly emerging stems are light brown to gray and rich in resin. The 1/2- to 1-inch-long needles are dark green and grow very thickly on the stems. The aroma of the trees is similar to pine trees. Fraser firs produce purple-colored cones that mature to a light brown and shatter on the tree when fully ripe.

Cultural Requirements

• Plant the tree in an area of full sun and in a moist, well-drained and preferably acidic soil. The tree responds well to transplanting with some root pruning prior to planting. Fraser fir does not grow well in alkaline soil and is intolerant of drought and heat. Fir trees including Fraser fir are best adapted to regions with cooler climates. The tree is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture zones 4 to 7.

Propagation and Uses

• Fraser fir is primarily propagated by seed. The use of cuttings and grafting are also means of propagation in special instances. Though it is possible to propagate with tissue culture, this method is not employed on a large scale. The major use of the tree is as Christmas trees. Hedges are often grown with the tree and the young boughs are used for creating pine pillows and as bed stuffing.