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Abies balsamea Observations
(balsam fir)
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Introduction to the NPN Native Species Observation Program
Balsam fir is one of the more important conifers in the northern United States and in Canada. Within its range it may also be referred to as balsam, Canadian balsam, eastern fir, and bracted balsam fir. It is a small to medium-sized tree used primarily for pulp and light frame construction, and it is one of the most popular Christmas trees. Wildlife rely extensively on this tree for food and shelter. Balsam fir is monoecious. In spring, 1 year before pollination, male (staminate) and female (ovulate or pistillate) strobili differentiate from flower buds. The strobili are microscopically recognizable at this time. Male strobili usually are distinguishable before the female strobili because they initially develop more rapidly. Flower buds usually open in late May or early June before vegetative buds but have been reported as flowering as early as late April).
Source: Silvics of North America, Volume 1: Conifers
You should record when two well-defined phenological events occur for balsam fir:
- Bud burst (BB) This is the date when the buds have burst open in at least three places on the plant under observation. The first green of the "candles" (needle bundles) are visible and the first scales may fall off the buds.
- Beginning of the unfolding of needles (NU) This is the date when, in at least three places on the plant under observation, needles start to unfold from collective strands ("candles"). The candles appear much thicker than when they first emerged from the buds (Photo by Mark D. Schwartz).
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Please record average dates for each event among multiple plants of the same species. Report by email if any plant appears in poor health or event dates for same-species plants vary by more than a few days.
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