822-1 Frasier Fir Plugs (Packed In Units of 25 Plugs)

The Fraser fir (Abies fraseri) is an evergreen tree native to the Appalachian Mountains, popular as a Christmas tree due to its scent, needle retention, and strong branches. It is known for its dark blue-green needles with a silver underside and a pleasant aroma, and it is commercially grown primarily in North Carolina.

Description and characteristics

Appearance: Features dark blue-green needles with a silvery underside that are soft to the touch. The needles are blunt, unlike the sharp needles of a spruce.

Aroma: Has a pleasant, citrus-resin fragrance, especially when the needles are crushed.

Shape: Has a pyramidal shape with strong branches that can hold heavy ornaments.

Bark: Young trees have smooth, gray-brown bark with resin blisters. As they age, the bark develops thin, papery scales.

Habitat and growth: Native range: Naturally grows at high elevations (above 4,500 feet) in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, including parts of Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Fraser firs are widely available in Michigan, both as live trees for planting and as fresh-cut Christmas trees and related products (wreaths, garlands). While not native to the state, they are well-adapted to the Michigan climate and are a popular choice due to their strong branches, pleasant fragrance, and excellent needle retention.

Soil: Prefers fertile, rocky to sandy, acidic soils.

Growth rate: Grows slowly, adding about 8-12 inches per year once established. It takes 7-10 years to reach a height of 6-7 feet in a field.

Wildlife: Red squirrels are major consumers of its seeds.

Uses and importance

Christmas trees: Widely considered one of the most popular Christmas tree species because of its form, scent, needle retention, and durability during shipping. It has been the official White House Christmas tree more than any other species.

Wreaths and garlands: Its durability also makes it a good choice for wreaths and garlands.

Timber: Historically, it was used less for timber because of the difficult terrain where it grows, but it can be used for pulpwood, light framing, and crates.