Discover the rare allure of Abies squamata, commonly known as Flaky Fir, a majestic conifer native to the pristine highlands of China and Tibet. Flourishing at elevations around 12,000 feet, this pyramidal fir captivates with its unique, exfoliating bark that peels away like paper, even at a young age. Its dense, blue-green needles create an enchanting backdrop to the striking deep violet-navy blue ovate cones that emerge from late spring to summer. Abies squamata thrives predominantly on the north-facing slopes of the Southeast Tibetan Plateau, where it often grows alongside Balfour's spruce. Despite being susceptible to stem rot, making it less favored for reforestation, its ecological value remains high—it serves as the habitat's linchpin. Undergrowth typically features vibrant Rhododendron species, further accentuating its natural splendor. Known locally by Tibetans as "bollo," Flaky Fir's survival story is a testament to nature's resilience and beauty.
