Grand Fir

Abies grandis
Grand fir

Abies grandis is native to the Pacific Northwest, the mountains of Idaho, and northern California. This large evergreen conifer grows upwards of 300 feet tall and has a trunk diameter of up to 6 feet. Because of its weak wood, grand fir is used primarily for paper making and packing crates.

Identifying Characteristics:

1. Leaves are needlelike, at least four times longer than wide.
2. Needles occur singly, not in clusters.
3. Buds are round or egg-shaped and have blunt tips.
4. Needles are attached directly to the stem.
5. Mature needles are 1 to 2 inches long.
6. Needles spread horizontally and are 1 ¼ to 2 inches long.
7. Needles have notched tips and have white bands only on the lower surface.