Description
Corkbark Fir tree, or alpine fir (also called subalpine) is a mountain fir native to the west coast. It grows over a wide area in the western US from New Mexico to Alaska.
It can grow 100-160 foot tall and have a trunk circumference of 4′, but on exposed mountaintops it grows as a small shrub. Needles are short in the range of 1-1 1/2″ long and are often pointed upward with drooping branches. The bark is a corky creamy white.
Corkbark Fir is native to cool, moist climates, but has been grown successfully near Chicago with plenty of soil space around the tree for root expansion. It tolerates snow loads well. This fir loves organic matter in the soil where it is planted. Irrigation in droughts is important for the corkbark fir tree. Plant in a place with good drainage or the plants will not do well.
This is a great substitute for the blue spruce tree as it has a nice tint of blue. Makes a fine landscape tree. We always have a few on hand for Christmas trees but remember they are slow growers. You may like some of our other faster growing first such as Frasers or Balsam fir. The largest is in the Olympic forest in Washington state.
Scientific Name: Abies lasiocarpa ssp arizonica
Zone: 4-9
Mature Height: 30-60 ft
Mature Width: 15-20 ft
Growth Rate: 1 – 2” per year
Soil: Moist,well-drained soil
Drought Tolerance: Fair
Flood Tolerance: Poor
Sun Requirements: Sun or part shade
Fall Color: None
Wildlife Value: Nesting for many animals. Deer, squirrels, chipmunks and birds eat the seeds.
