Grand Fir

Abies grandis

Native Range: Pacific Northwest; coastal BC to northern California, and interior WA, ID, and western MT

Natural Habitat: Moist stream bottoms, valleys, montane forests, and mid‑elevation mesic slopes

Foliage / Flowers: Flat, glossy dark‑green needles in two ranks; upright cones 6–12 cm that disintegrate on the branch

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6+ hours of direct sunlight

Growth Rate: Fast-growing; commonly 2–3 ft per year under good conditions

20-year Height: About 25 ft

Elevation Range: Sea level to roughly 5,600–6,000 ft

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9 (approx. –30°F tolerance)

Wind Tolerance: Moderate; roots provide some anchoring but not highly wind‑firm in exposed sites

Soil Preference: Moist, well‑drained, slightly acidic, nutrient-rich soils

Alkali / Saline Soil Tolerance: Low

Life Span: Often 200+ years

Minimum Annual Precip: Around 14–20 inches minimum; thrives with higher precipitation

Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established; prefers consistent moisture

Windbreak Spacing: Typically used in mixed-species plantings; allow ample room due to mature size

Potential Pests / Disease: Balsam woolly adelgid, Indian paint fungus, borers, loopers

Deer Resistance: Moderate; not highly preferred by deer

Wildlife Value: High

• Food source and habitat for birds and small mammals