grand fir

tree

Also known as: Abies grandis

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The grand fir (Abies grandis) is a tall fir tree native to the northwestern Pacific coastal region of North America. It is characterized by its cylindrical, greenish cones and soft wood.1

Firs belong to the genus Abies and are evergreen conifers in the Pinaceae family. True firs are found in North and Central America, Europe, Asia, and northern Africa. They are distinguished by their needle-like leaves that grow directly from the branch, leaving circular scars when they fall. Their cones stand upright, and the cone scales break apart after maturity, leaving the central axis on the branch.2

Several fir species, including the grand fir, can reach impressive heights. While some fir wood is used for lumber and pulp, it is often considered inferior to pine or spruce. Some fir species are cultivated as ornamentals and are popular as Christmas trees.2

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tree
Tree height growth
For example, those of the grand fir (Abies grandis) in the area of Vancouver are preformed in October, so that at spring bud break those height growth units elongate and develop; a new bud is then initiated in July. Thus, the environmental conditions between July and October affect the number…
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For example, those of the grand fir (Abies grandis) in the area of Vancouver are preformed in October, so that at spring bud break those height growth units elongate and develop; a new bud is then initiated in July. Thus, the environmental conditions between July and October affect the number…
Read More

David Douglas
Legacy and honors
noble fir (Abies procera), the grand fir (Abies grandis), and the Monterey pine (Pinus radiata). In addition to trees and shrubs, he described and introduced many ornamental plants to British horticulture, such as the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), the red-flowering currant (Ribes
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noble fir (Abies procera), the grand fir (Abies grandis), and the Monterey pine (Pinus radiata). In addition to trees and shrubs, he described and introduced many ornamental plants to British horticulture, such as the California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), the red-flowering currant (Ribes
Read More