Ottawa Conservation District
16731 Ferris Street
Grand Haven, MI 49417
616.846.8770 ext. 5 phone
616.842.2820 fax
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm
www.ottawacd.org
Map | Directions

Tree Descriptions

Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea)

Height: 40-50’
Width: 20-35’
Growth Rate: slow
Soil: sand, clay, loam
Moisture: wet, moist
Shade Tolerance:  shade
Bloom Time: N/A
Flower Color: N/A
Uses: Christmas, wildlife, landscaping
Spacing: minimum 10’ x 10’
Habitat: Full sun to part shade. Prefers cool, moderate to wet sites and will tolerate heavy clay to rocky soils.
Notes: Often browsed by deer.

Balsam fir is the only fir native to Michigan. It has flat needles and upright, cylindrical cones. Balsam fir is used for Christmas trees and branches are used to make wreaths. Also used in screens, mass plantings and windbreaks.