Swiss Stone Pine vs Pacific Silver Fir - TreeTime.ca

Swiss Stone Pine vs Pacific Silver Fir

Abies amabilis

Pinus cembra

CUSTOM GROW

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Pacific Silver Fir
Swiss Stone Pine

Pacific Silver Fir is a tall evergreen tree native to the Pacific Northwest. It has two-toned needles, dark green on top with silvery undersides, giving the tree a distinctive appearance. The straight trunk and dense, symmetrical crown make it a striking forest species.
It provides ecological value as part of high-elevation forests, offering cover for wildlife and food from its seeds. It is harvested for timber and pulp, and it has been used ornamentally in some plantings.
Pacific Silver Fir is well suited for ecological restoration, naturalization, and habitat projects where native conifers are needed. Its latin name “Amabilis” means ‘Lovely’, due to its striking appearance.

Swiss Stone Pine is a hardy, slow-growing evergreen. Narrowly pyramidal while young, this long-lived tree is adaptable to many soil types. Due to its shape and density, Swiss Stone Pine is a versatile shade or accent tree.

Although our pictures don't show it, this seldom seen tree is among the most attractive conifers we have seen and is likely why it is the most chosen tree used for memorials or dedications in public parks.

Swiss Stone Pine is also sought after for the large seeds it produces. They are often used as pine nuts are and are tasty in pesto.

Pacific Silver Fir Quick Facts

Swiss Stone Pine Quick Facts

Zone: 5a
Zone: 3a
Height: 45 m (150 ft)
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Light: any
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Growth form: upright, conical
Spreading: seeds - low
Suckering: none


Fall colour: green
Bark: smooth, grey
Cones: purplish, disintegrate as they mature
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: BC
Other Names: amabilis fir, silver fir