Abies holophylla - Conifer - Manchurian Fir, Needle Fir Page

Discover the beauty and elegance of the Manchurian Fir, also known as Abies holophylla or Needle Fir. This evergreen coniferous tree is native to the mountainous regions of northern Korea, southern Ussuriland, and China. Growing up to 30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 1 meter, it features a narrowly conical crown adorned with horizontal spreading branches.
The Manchurian Fir is a sight to behold with its scaly and gray-brown bark, accentuated by resin blisters. Its unique leaves, often referred to as "needles," are flattened, measuring 2-4 centimeters in length and 1.5-2.5 millimeters in thickness. They spread at right angles from the shoot and end in a sharp point. Unlike some other fir trees, the Manchurian Fir's leaves are sharp and prickly, lacking any indentation at the top. Stunningly bright green on the upper side and whitish-green underneath, the leaves feature two whitish strips formed by 7-10 wax-covered stomatal bands. The shoots of this tree are glabrous and exhibit a shiny yellow-gray color when young, gradually turning gray-brown with age.
As the Manchurian Fir matures, it produces impressive yellow-brown cones, measuring 12-14 centimeters in length and 4-5 centimeters in width. Slightly tapering with a bluntly rounded apex, these cones conceal scale bracts beneath the cone scales. Come October, the cones disintegrate, releasing 8-9 millimeter-long seeds with wedge-shaped wings measuring 1.5 centimeters.
While the Manchurian Fir is predominantly found in its natural habitats, it is occasionally cultivated as an ornamental plant. Its attractive form and distinctive features make it a captivating addition to any landscape. Whether you're looking to enhance the aesthetics of your garden or create a serene natural environment, the Manchurian Fir is an excellent choice.