Fir, Canaan 6-7'
Canaan Fir
Abies balsamea phanerolepi
- Height: Typically 30–40 feet tall in Michigan’s cooler climate
- Spread: Approximately 15–20 feet wide
- Spacing: Plant 15–20 feet apart to form an elegant windbreak or stand
- Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
- Deciduous/ Evergreen: Evergreen
- Native: Native to the United States
Description
Canaan Fir offers a stunning, modern statement with its traditional, conical evergreen form and soft, fragrant needles that release a delightful fir scent. In Michigan’s cooler climate, this resilient conifer tends to reach a more modest height—typically 30–40 feet—with a spread of about 15–20 feet, making it ideal for smaller landscapes where space is at a premium. Its dense, dark-green foliage provides a polished vertical accent throughout the year, perfect for windbreaks or as a refined focal point. While it does not produce edible fruit, its overall structure and pleasant aroma deliver a satisfying and elegant presence that enhances any outdoor setting.
General Care
- Sunlight: Thrives in full sun, requiring at least 6 hours of direct light daily for optimal growth and color retention.
- Soil: Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil; amending heavier soils with organic matter promotes healthy root development.
- Watering: Provide consistent moisture during the establishment phase; once mature, it benefits from regular watering in extended warm periods.
- Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture and stabilize soil temperatures, keeping mulch slightly away from the trunk for proper airflow.
- Pruning: Minimal pruning is required; remove dead or damaged branches in early spring to maintain a tidy, polished structure.
Canaan Fir brings a fresh and inspiring touch to Michigan landscapes, offering a refined, fragrant evergreen that stands as a beautiful and practical accent year-round.