Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Specialized needle, evergreen
Shape
Linear needle-like, flattened in cross-section with blunt or slightly notched tips
Margin
Entire (smooth), though needles are linear and undivided
Arrangement
Spiral on the twig, but often twisted to appear in two horizontal rows (pectinate)
Venation
Parallel, featuring a single prominent midrib running the length of the needle
Description
The Balsam Fir is a medium-sized evergreen conifer with a classic, symmetrical conical spire shape. The tree produces upright cones that sit perched on top of the branches and disintegrate in place upon maturity.
Habitat
Cool boreal forests, damp woods, bogs, and mountainous regions with moist, acidic, well-draining soils
Native Range
Native to northern and eastern North America, spanning from Newfoundland west to Alberta and south into the mountains of the northeastern United States