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Balsam fir

Abies balsamea | Family: Abies

submission: Chrissy McIntire

Identification:

Leaves—

In clusters, medium green-colored little pins.

Twigs—

Long brown, not too thin

Flowers—

N/A

Fruit—

pine cone

Bark—

dark brown rough texture

Hover over one of the descriptions to see an example.

picture of leaves picture of bark picture of twigs picture of fruit picture of flowers

 

Natural History:

Lifespan—

150–200 years of age.

General description—

They are known for their pleasant fragrance and are found in upland areas. It is a popular Christmas tree with medicinal purposes and they don’t last that long in gardens.

Natural distribution and habitat—

Eastern North America.

Conservation status—

There are no environmental threats, and many of these trees are found in protected areas.

Uses—

Wildlife eats the seeds. The soft brittle wood is usually used for pulpwood and even its resin was a confection before the popularity of chewing gum.
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