Canaan Fir

BARE ROOT TREE

Babies balsamea phanerolepi

Hardness zones: 3-8

Soil: Slightly acidic humus rich, but adapts well to heavy clay soil as well

Space Required: 20-25 ft wide. Mature trees can reach up to 50 ft tall.

Light Requirements: Full sun / Part shade

Canaan fir trees are native to the mountains of West Virginia and were once considered to be a local ecotype of balsam fir but are now recognized as their own species. They do very well at growing in heavier clay soils than other fir species that normally need a more acidic soil, rich in humus to thrive (similar to a forest floor). They are vibrant green and have the typical Christmas tree look which these trees are occasionally grown for. They have a medium growth rate of 1-2 feet per year and can grow up to 50 feet tall and 25 feet wide. Another great characteristic of canaan firs is that they hold their needles for a long time (up to a decade!) This tree becomes habitat and shelter for many species of birds and mammals as it grows.