Balsam Fir vs Sitka Spruce - TreeTime.ca

Balsam Fir vs Sitka Spruce

Picea sitchensis

Abies balsamea

CUSTOM GROW

Sitka Spruce
Balsam Fir

Sitka Spruce is a native conifer and the largest spruce species in the world. It grows quickly and reaches impressive heights, often reaching more than 50 metres (164 feet) in suitable conditions. It has strong, durable wood that has long been recognised for its commercial value.

It contributes to soil stability and plays an important role in coastal ecosystems. It offers cover and nesting sites for birds and small animals, and its seeds provide food for wildlife such as songbirds and small mammals.

Sitka Spruce plays a role in reforestation and ecological restoration projects in Coastal BC. It also holds historical significance: the Wright Brothers famously used Sitka Spruce to construct the frames of their first flying machines.

Balsam Fir - best known as a "Christmas tree" - doesn't just look great in living rooms; it's a terrific tree for your yard too!

This fir grows tall and narrow. Balsam Fir is cold hardy, shade tolerant, and will thrive in most soil types and moisture levels.

Sitka Spruce Quick Facts

Balsam Fir Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $12.99
Zone: 5a
Zone: 2a
Height: 61 m (200 ft)
Height: 25 m (82 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: any
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Growth form: upright, conical
Spreading: seeds - low, layering - low
Suckering: none


Bark: thin, flaky, gray-brown to gray-purple
Cones: Reddish-brown, papery cones
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: BC
Native to: AB, SK, MB, ON, QC, NS, NB, NL, PE
Other Names: coast spruce, tideland spruce
Other Names: balm of gilead, blister fir, canada balsam, eastern fir, fir-balsam