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Sapin baumier Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.
Balsam Fir is best identified by its flat, soft, fragrant needles
with unique cones which stand upright and smooth grey bark with
raised resin blisters.
Balsam Fir grows on a wide variety of sites throughout the region,
preferring moist bottom lowlands. Balsam Fir is the favoured food
of the spruce budworm.
High to moderate
Moderate
Wide Rangeph Level: Neutral
to acid
Low to moderate
Neutral to acid
Low
1
A moderate size, compact,
and pyramidal crown.
The needles are deep
green, soft, and fragrant
21m
70-150 yrs
Balsam Fir is a moderate to fast-growing tree that can tolerate
a wide variety of planting conditions and locations. It can be transplanted
from bareroot easily when small or from container stock.
This tree will moderate
the local microclimate, adding wildlife habitat and reducing energy
use. Adapts well to shearing and is well suited to hedging.
Balsam Fir is a favourite winter food of the ruffed grouse and various
other birds and small mammals. Moose also graze on the trees during
winter.
Due to its fragrance and soft needles it is well suited for Christmas
trees and wreaths. Various oils are extracted from the needles for
their medicinal properties for soothing remedies for sore throats
and coughs. The Balsam Fir is the provincial tree of New Brunswick.
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