Engelmann Spruce vs Fraser Fir - TreeTime.ca

Engelmann Spruce vs Fraser Fir

Abies fraseri

Picea engelmannii

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Fraser Fir
Engelmann Spruce

Fraser Fir is a great choice for a Christmas tree, or as an addition to your landscape. It retains its needles when cut, has good branch strength, and grows into the classic conical Christmas tree shape. When the cones are young they emerge purple, which adds an additional splash of colour to the tree.

Fraser Fir may suffer in warmer climates, we do not recommend this tree in hardiness zones 7 or higher. It is very similar to Balsam Fir, and can freely be used as a substitute.

Engelmann Spruce is a tall, cold resistant tree native to western North America. This high-altitude mountain tree has characteristic loose, scaly bark ranging in colour from reddish-brown to grey.

Birds such as grouse, woodpeckers, nuthatches and thrushes will call this tree home. As Engelmann Spruce can exceed heights of 100 feet, consumers should note it is too large for a normal city lot.

Fraser Fir Quick Facts

Engelmann Spruce Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2a
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Height: 30 m (98 ft)
Spread: 6 m (20 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: any
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: none
Suckering: none




Other Names: frasers balsam fir, frasier fir, she balsam, southern balsam fir