Description
Full SunPart shade tolerated
Moderate WaterConsistent moisture
Potted Christmas TreePerfect for the festive season
Ideal for PotsFor festive display
15-25mMature height
6-9mMature width
Full SunPart shade toleratedModerate WaterConsistent moisturePotted Christmas TreePerfect for the festive seasonIdeal for PotsFor festive display15-25mMature height6-9mMature widthSuitable For
Feature TreeEvergreen StructureFormal GardensEntrance FeatureFocal PointFeature Planting
Why We Recommend It
- Dense, aromatic foliage and a classic pyramidal outline make this one of the most traditional living Christmas trees.
- It performs best in cool, moist climates with shelter from hot, drying conditions.
- Ideal for gardeners who want strong festive fragrance and have a suitable cool-climate planting position after Christmas.
Pot Sizes & Plant Heights
300mm pot600-700mm above pot
Available sizes and plant heights are an approximate guide only. Stock fluctuates through the season and other sizes may be available. All plant stock and sizes are approximate and subject to grower availability at the time of year. View our Pot Sizes Explained guide.
Special Order Item
This tree is available by special order only and is not held in stock at our stores. Orders will be filled within 1-2 weeks of ordering. If you have questions or enquiries about placing an order, please contact us via our online form.
Santa's Tree Scorecard
Branch Strength4/5
Colour Hold4/5
Festive Fragrance5/5
Needle Retention4/5
Why it shines: Its rich traditional fragrance and dark green foliage give Balsam Fir the classic Christmas-tree character.
Plant Details
| Botanical Name | Abies balsamea |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Balsam Fir, Canadian Balsam, Balm of Gilead Fir |
| Plant Type | Evergreen conifer tree |
| Position | Full sun to part shade |
| Mature Size | 15-25m high x 6-9m wide |
| Maintenance | Low to moderate maintenance. Use a controlled-release fertiliser for acid-loving trees in spring. Pruning is rarely required; remove only damaged branches and lightly shape young growth if necessary. |
| Soil Type | Cool, moisture-retentive, well-drained acidic soil |
Care Guide
Plant in cool, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil, with protection from harsh afternoon heat and drying winds. It is not suited to hot, dry districts. Indoors, place it in the coolest bright room available, away from heaters and air-conditioning, and limit the festive display to about 7-10 days.
Use cool, moisture-retentive, well-drained acidic soil. If keeping the tree in a container after Christmas, use a quality premium potting mix and move it into a larger pot as the root system fills the current container.
Keep the potting mix evenly moist without leaving the pot standing in water. Check it daily while indoors, as warm rooms can dry the root ball quickly. Continue regular watering after planting, particularly through the first summer.
Use a controlled-release fertiliser for acid-loving trees in spring. Pruning is rarely required; remove only damaged branches and lightly shape young growth if necessary.
Flowering, Fruiting & Fragrance
| Flower Colour | N/A |
|---|---|
| Flowering Period | N/A |
| Fruiting | Upright cylindrical cones develop high in the canopy on mature trees and break apart while still attached. |
| Fragrance | Distinctive balsam fragrance from the foliage and resin. |
Delivery Restrictions
Due to Australian quarantine restrictions, this product cannot be sent to WA, NT or TAS.
Complete The Project
- Premium potting mix for container growing
- Controlled-release fertiliser for trees and shrubs
- Organic mulch for planting out
- Decorative outer pot or basket for the festive display
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun does Balsam Fir need?
Balsam Fir grows best in full sun to part shade. Choose a position that also provides the cool root conditions and drainage described in the care guide.
How often should I water Balsam Fir?
Check the potting mix regularly and water thoroughly when the upper layer begins to dry. Keep the root ball evenly moist during the festive display, but never leave the pot standing in water.
How big does Balsam Fir grow?
Balsam Fir can reach around 15-25m high and 6-9m wide in suitable conditions. Allow for the mature size before choosing a permanent garden position.
Is Balsam Fir low maintenance?
Balsam Fir is generally low to moderate maintenance once established. Preserve its natural form and limit pruning to damaged, competing or poorly placed growth.
Can Balsam Fir stay in a pot?
Yes, while it remains manageable. Repot as the roots fill the container and remember that this is an outdoor tree rather than a permanent indoor plant.
How long can Balsam Fir stay indoors for Christmas?
Keep the indoor display as short as practical, ideally around a week. Place it in a cool, bright room away from heaters and air-conditioning, check moisture daily and return it outdoors gradually after Christmas.
Can I plant Balsam Fir in the garden after Christmas?
Yes, provided the site suits its growing needs and has enough room for the mature tree. Water it well before planting and maintain regular moisture while it establishes.
