Abies lasiocarpa, also known as Rocky Mountain Fir, has one-inch, bluish-green needles. It is native to Northwest North America and throughout the Rocky Mountains. In the wild it is a narrow, spire-like tree but less so in cultivation - in many landscapes it has a narrowly pyramidal form. The tree grows best in moist, well-drained soils and does well in clay soils, making it a great choice for our area. Its moderate growth rate and narrow habit combine with its bluish foliage to make a great specimen, or a screening or border tree for smaller spaces. The notable bark is especially interesting in young trees, where it can be readily seen on the trunk. We like its short, stiff needles, which make for a great peek-a-boo effect for the lovely bark!
