Pacific Silver Fir in Detail.

Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis) can grow to 100-230 feet and 36-44 inches in diameter. The average maximum age for Pacific silver fir is 400-500 years on good sites, and 250-350 years in tougher habitats. The oldest Pacific silver fir found was 540 years old. Pacific silver fir begin to have deformed growth as they become older. Young trees have resin-filled blisters protruding from the smooth, thin bark, whle the bark of older firs is rough textured and flaky.

Their needles are very sharp and curved. Their cones are hard, barrel shaped, and 3.5-6 inches long.

The wood of Pacific silver fir is soft, light in weight and color, and has little odor or resin. The wood is weak and has low durability. The most common uses of Pacific silver fir are light construction frames, subfloor, construction plywood, sheaths, container veneer, and pulpwood. Pacific silver fir are also used for Christmas trees and landscaping.


Pacific silver fir grows well in mountains areas providing excellent shelter for mountain goats. Large old growth stands also are important for spotted owl nesting, and fisher habitat.

The seeds of Pacific silver fir are eaten by birds, rodents, and squirrels.

Pacific silver fir often receives damage from black bear, and porcupine, which increases susceptibility to pathogens. Wounds result in wetwood, circular or radial shake, and frost cracks.

Pacific silver fir is also susceptible to western spruce budworm.

Pacific silver fir are found in the southern end of southeastern Alaska usually growing along western hemlock.