Some Like It Hot

The Canaan Fir (pronounced "Ka' nain" or "Kay' nan"), Abies balsamea 'Phanerolipsis,' has been performing well at Angelica. And, this season's extremes of heat and drought have been a real test for any Abies sp. This strain of Balsam Fir is found in the Canaan Valley of West Virginia. This is as far south as the species has been reported to occur naturally. Other firs struggle with heat and humidity, but the Canaan Fir seems to tolerate drought and sea level conditions.

Characterized for the typically symmetric pyramidal growth common to its genus, the Canaan Fir shares the deep, rich green color and soft texture of its cousins. We have yet to see any diminishing of vigor or limb deterioration on any of our field specimens.

At harvest, the Canaan Fir exhibits an attractive B&B package. The plant tolerates a wider range of soil types including the heavier soils than some of its Abies relatives. As far as the landscape performance of this fir, the Canaan is more apt to adapt in areas where Fraser or other Balsam strains have shown difficulty.