Nordmann Fir: Meaning and use

Nordmann's fir is a nobel fir tree, that has surpassed the traditional Christmas tree (common spruce) in popularity.

Nordmann Fir

The Nordmann fir ( Abies nordmanniana ), from the Pinaceae family, is also called the "Caucasian fir " because of its geographical origins. It should not be confused with the common spruce whose cones droop, whereas the Nordmann has upright cones.

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Why does EcoTree plant Nordmann Fir?

This species is very hardy and doesn't suffer spring frosts because it flowers later. It also tolerates calcareous or sandy soils.

Nordmann Fir - Overview

This fir comes from the temperate regions of Western Asia (i.e. Caucasus, Georgia, Russia, Armenia). It was introduced to Europe in the mid-19th century by a Finnish botanist who gave it his name, Alexander von Nordmann. This species has a majestic presence with a conical to cylindrical shape. Its bark is grey and smooth, with a tendency to crack in patches with age. Its evergreen foliage is made of flat needles with a dark green top and sea green underside with two prominent white bands. In the autumn, its male flowers form small upright catkins, yellow to red in colour. Its female flowers are green cones, grouped at the top of the tree. Its cones are cylindrical, 15cm in length, light green in colour, but turn brown when ripe in October/November.

Nordmann Fir - Species requirements

The Nordmann Fir grows well in mountainous forests, at altitudes from 1000 to 2000m, in a humid, continental climate. The Nordmann fir flourishes in soil rich in humus, well drained, fresh, and slightly acidic. It can also withstand calcareous or sandy soils. The Nordmann Fir is quite sensitive to pollution, so it doesn't grow well in cities. This species is very hardy and doesn't suffer spring frosts because it blossoms later. It's suited to full sun exposure away from cold winds, but it can tolerate partial shade. During its first years, it should be staked, braced, and watered regularly.

Nordmann Fir wood

Across the glove, the Nordmann Fir can be an alternative to any species of fir for reforestation and wood production for framing and joinery. Its white wood is also used for construction and producing pulp. The Nordmann Fir is often used as a Christmas tree because, unlike spruce, it doesn't lose its needles too quickly when exposed to heat.

Symbolism of the Nordmann Fir

As end of year celebrations approach, a Christmas tree is on everyone's mind! We all want to find the tree of our dreams, the one that will shine brightly and whose branches will blanket the gifts Santa Claus left. The Nordmann has been the leading Christmas tree in recent years: the king of kings, the one that doesn't lose its needles!

Christmas - the biggest holiday of the year - is the best opportunity to give a lasting gift. Surprise your loved ones with a young Normann Fir tree! After New Year's Day, the tree will continue to live and grow to become a great Christmas tree full of beauty and strength. Give a Nordmann tree, offer an original Christmas present that's sustainable and will continue to bring joy year after year! Gift a tree!

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