Abies balsamea

Abies balsamea or balsam fir is a North American fir, native to most of eastern and central Canada (Newfoundland west to central Alberta) and the northeastern United States (Maine to Lake Superior, and south in the Appalachian Mountains to West Virginia).

Description

Abies balsamea is a medium-sized evergreen tree typically 14–20 metres (46–66 ft) tall, occasionally reaching a height of 27 metres (89 ft). The narrow conic crown consists of dense, dark-green leaves. The bark on young trees is smooth, grey, and with resin blisters (which tend to use when poked), becoming rough and fissured or scaly on old trees. The leaves are dark green above and lighter green below, with a balsam scent, particularly when crushed.

Distribution and habitat

Abies balsamea is commonly found in cool climates, preferring a humid continental climate. It is found in several habitat types including both coniferous and mixed forests, boreal forests, and on high elevation mountains. It is also a major component in the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence forest.

Uses

The wood of Abies balsamea is used for pulp and light frame buildings. It is also popular as a Christmas tree. Its fragrance, color, good needle retention and form make it an excellent tree for this purpose. The resin is used to produce Canada balsam, and was traditionally used as a cold remedy and as a glue for glasses, optical instrument components, and for preparing permanent mounts of microscope specimens.

Conservation

While Abies balsamea is not currently a species of conservation concern, it is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including the balsam woolly adelgid and spruce budworm. These threats can cause significant damage to balsam fir forests.

See also

• List of Abies species
• Christmas tree cultivation

References

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