Description
Alpine (also called subalpine) fir 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. It 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 incorporated into the soil where it is planted. Irrigation in droughts is important for the corkbark fir. Plant in a place with good drainage or the plants will not do well. This is a great substitute for the blue spruce tree.
