Grand Fir vs Sitka Spruce - TreeTime.ca

Grand Fir vs Sitka Spruce

Picea sitchensis

Abies grandis

CUSTOM GROW

CUSTOM GROW

Sitka Spruce
Grand 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.

Grand Fir is a large, coniferous evergreen native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. Closely related to the White Fir, this tree has glossy green, needle-like leaves with notched ends. A tall, majestic tree, Grand Fir grows best in drier climates.

We currently have no plans to produce the Grand Fir. However, you will find that we are producing a number of quality alternatives.

Sitka Spruce Quick Facts

Grand Fir Quick Facts

Zone: 5a
Zone: 3a
Height: 61 m (200 ft)
Height: 39 m (130 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


Fall colour: green
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: BC
Other Names: coast spruce, tideland spruce
Other Names: giant fir, great silver fir, lowland white fir, oregon fir, vancouver fir, western white fir