Abies alba Pyramidalis - Dwarf White Fir

Abies alba 'Pyramidalis' is a dwarf and highly ornamental fir. It has a columnar and conical silhouette adorned with dense and dark foliage with a silver underside, and a very soft appearance. In spring, the young shoots are creamy yellow, and in summer, the foliage is covered with small upright green cones that later take on a pretty purplish or reddish-brown hue. This small fir, with its modest size and presence, will easily become the focal point of a large rock garden or a small garden, in cool, preferably acidic soil.

Also known as Common Fir and capable of reaching 50 m (164 ft) in height in its natural environment, the white fir is an evergreen tree of the pine family native to the mountains of central and southern Europe. The dwarf variety 'Pyramidalis', with a columnar habit, grows quite rapidly in a conical shape, reaching 2.50 m (8.2 ft) in height and 1 m (3.3 ft) in width in 10 years. It bears greyish and dark branches, covered with very dark green, shiny, silvery-reverse needles, arranged in rows on either side of the lateral branches. Its very pale-yellow young shoots beautifully contrast with the older foliage. Its smooth grey bark cracks over time, adding an interesting dimension to its beautiful vegetation. The cones of young subjects ripen to a purplish hue.

Abies alba 'Pyramidalis' is ideal for decorating a large rock garden or standing out in a small garden thanks to its dense presence and moderate stature. With its columnar and majestic silhouette, it will work wonders in the centre of a bed of perennials and low conifers, especially if planted in groups of 3 subjects. The visual qualities of dwarf conifers suit the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes and textures to the daintiness of flowers. These plants are a perfect alternative to trimmed boxwood, and can be used to mark pathways or border terraces. They serve as a setting for roses, peonies, or tousled grasses. They can also be planted with ground cover plants such as aubrietas, cerastium, and flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colours to find the right look for your garden.

Tips: Water during periods of high heat as it is sensitive to drought.