Abies concolor ssp. concolor 'Swift's Silver', also known as Swift's Silver Concolor Fir, is a popular choice for both ornamental landscaping and as a Christmas tree. This coniferous tree is shade tolerant, although growth may be slower in dense shade. The leaves of the Swift's Silver Concolor Fir have a strong lemony scent when crushed, making it a unique addition to any garden or landscape.
This tree is also prized for its wood, which lacks a distinct odor and is therefore suitable for making tubs for storing food items. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and grows well in heavy clay soils. The Swift's Silver Concolor Fir is intolerant of atmospheric pollution and prefers slightly acidic conditions with a pH of around 5. In the wild, this tree thrives on poor, dry sites and is shallow rooted, which makes it prone to being wind-blown in exposed areas. The Swift's Silver Concolor Fir blooms from mid-May to July and is virtually never damaged by late frosts or aphis.
The Swift's Silver Concolor Fir is an incredibly ornamental tree with its striking silver foliage and lemony scent. It is available commercially and has good needle retention, making it an excellent choice as a Christmas tree. With proper care, this tree can reach heights of up to 120 feet and live for many years.