Abies squamata 'Flaky' (Flaky Fir)


Michael's Opinion

Abies squamata ‘Flaky’ is very unique and an interesting evergreen tree. With its rich, flaky-like bark and intense purple cones, this rare tree is truly a specimen plant when used in the landscape.

Botanical Information

FamilyPinaceae
GenusAbies
Speciessquamata
Cultivar'Flaky'
CategoryWoody
TypeTree (evergreen)
OriginNative to China.
Pronunciation

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone2 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone0 - 8
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH7 - H4
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-46 to -7
Temperature (°F)-50 - 20
Height30 – 40 m
Spread4 – 5 m
GrowthSlow

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionAbies squamata 'Flaky’ is a tall, very unique tree largely due to its purple cones and flaky-like bark.
ID CharacteristicAbies squamata ‘Flaky’ has outstanding purple upright cones and flake-like reddish-brown exfoliating bark which make this a unique evergreen tree that can be identified quite easily.
ShapeLoose form with an upright growth habit.
LandscapeNot primarily used in the landscape due to rarity, but may be used as a lawn ornament.
CultivationPrefers well drained or dry acidic soils and can withstand living in light (sandy) soil, medium (loamy) soil and heavy (clay) soil. This species can tolerate full/some shade and full/some sun, although if subject to full shade when young the tree will grow much slower. It is pollinated by wind.
PestsNo known pest/disease for this particular cultivar. Note the Abies genus is subject to spruce budworm.
Notable SpecimensWhistling Gardens, Wilsonville, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatHorticultural origin.
Bark/Stem DescriptionRich, brown-reddish, thin, papery, exfoliating bark (similar to birch) which allows for winter interest.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionCones are oblong, ovate to 5 – 6 cm long, violet colour when young. Tips have bract overhanging the seed scales and are 1.5 cm long, globose, red-brown and very resinous.
Leaf DescriptionNeedles are densely arranged, linear, 1.5 – 2.5 cm long, rounded tip, with 2 white stomata bands on lower part of tree and a distinct vein up the back of the needle.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are monecious, individual flowers, male or female; but can find both sexes on a plant; pollinated by wind.
Colour DescriptionNeedles are dark blue-green with silvery undersides. Cones are violet colour when young and a striking purple colour when mature.
Texture DescriptionLeathery, stiff needles.

Photographs