Balsam Fir Tree Facts

Balsam fir trees (Abies balsamea) are also commonly referred to as the balm of Gilead, Northern balsam, silver pine or blister fir. This ornamental tree is native to cooler climates and is commonly selected for use as a Christmas Tree. The branches of this tree are also used to make wreaths and other holiday decorations.

Identification

Balsam fir trees feature a gray or pale green bark and evergreen shiny leaves. Resin blisters can be seen on the otherwise smooth bark of the tree. As the tree ages, more blisters develop and ooze balsam, an oily resin. The evergreen needles measure 1 inch in length and feature rounded tips. The tops of the leaves are dark green and shiny but the underside is a silver-blue color that inspires the nickname of silver pine.

Geography

Balsam fir trees grow in USDA zones 3 through 5, which includes much of the northern United States. Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, New England, Virginia and West Virginia are all native homes to balsam fir trees. Plant balsam fir trees in well-drained acidic soils where they receive full sunlight or partial shade. For the best results, the soil should be moist and cool. This tree is native to mountainsides and rocky areas but has also been known to grow in swamps.

Size

Balsam fir trees feature a pyramid-like shape and mature to a height of 45 to 75 feet and a width of 20 to 25 feet. This is a slow-growing tree, growing no more than 12 inches annually. Because the root system of the balsam fir is shallow, this tree is only moderately tolerant of extreme winds.

Features

This evergreen tree produces cones that first appear dark purple in color but which age and become a grayish brown color. The cones measure 2 to 4 inches in length and feature seeds that aid in tree production. Young balsam firs begin producing cones at 15 years of age and seed production begins at 20 to 30 years of age.

Uses

The balsam fir tree is a source of food for many forms of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, mice, voles, moose and deer. Moose and deer also rely on the trees for shelter from the elements. Beavers use the bark of this tree to build dams. In addition to providing food and shelter to local wildlife, the wood from this tree is cultivated for use in pulpwood and lumber.