PLANT LIBRARY

Other Names:  Japanese Fir

Description:

A beautiful, symmetrical ornamental tree that is perfect for making a statement in the landscape or in a large garden; exceptional deep green foliage really stands out; broadens gracefully with age

Ornamental Features

Nikko Fir is primarily valued in the landscape for its characteristic tiered habit of growth. It has attractive dark green evergreen foliage. The glossy needles are highly ornamental and remain dark green throughout the winter. The rough brown bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Nikko Fir is an evergreen tree with a strong central leader and a stunning habit of growth which features almost oriental horizontally-tiered branches. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and usually looks its best without pruning, although it will tolerate pruning. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Nikko Fir is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Vertical Accent

Planting & Growing

Nikko Fir will grow to be about 50 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 30 feet. It has a low canopy, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It does best in average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This species is not originally from North America.