Canaan fir (abies intermedii), also known as West Virginia balsam fir or She balsam, is a species of evergreen tree that is native to the Appalachian Mountains of the eastern United States. It is closely related to the Balsam fir and is often used as a Christmas tree due to its attractive appearance and pleasant fragrance.
The Canaan fir is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 66 feet (20 meters) tall, although it is typically smaller in cultivation. It has a narrow, conical shape and dense, dark green foliage that is soft to the touch. The needles are about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and arranged in a spiral pattern on the branches.
The tree’s cones are 3-4 inches (7.5-10 cm) long and cylindrical, with a grayish-brown color and thin, papery scales. The cones sit upright on the branches and are often persistent on the tree for several years.
One distinguishing feature of the Canaan fir is its bark, which is grayish-brown and smooth with resin blisters that produce a fragrant, sticky sap. The tree’s buds are also distinctive, with a reddish-brown color and a pointed shape.
Overall, the Canaan fir is a beautiful and popular tree that is prized for its ornamental value and its use as a Christmas tree. Its soft foliage, pleasant fragrance, and attractive cones make it a favorite of many holiday decorators.
