Cool Creek Seedlings
Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea)
Description
Sorry, we can not ship to Canada.
Latin Name: Abies balsamea
Zones: 3-7
Common Names: balsam, Canada balsam, eastern fir, balm of Gilead, blister fir
Mature Height/Spread: Balsam Fir can grow 45-75 ft. high and have a 20-25 ft. spread in ideal conditions. Has a slow growth rate of less than 12" per year.
Soil/Climate: Balsam fir prefer cold climates, well-drained, acidic soil, dislikes heat and dry air, not well-adapted to cultivation. Prefers full sun and partial shade.
Notes: Needles are variable, up to 1" long buds are resinous. Balsam Fir are widely used as Christmas trees. The resin was used to make Canada Balsam: a liquid used to treat the common cold as well as glue eye glasses. Balsam Fir oil is also approved by the EPA as a non-toxic rodent repellent.
Wildlife: Provides food for moose, American red squirrels, crossbills and chickadees, as well as shelter for moose, snowshoe hares, white-tailed deer, ruffed grouse and other small mammals. Beavers sometimes use the Balsam Fir wood for dam building.