Abies grandis Lindl. Grand Fir or Giant Fir Native to Vancouver Island, British Columbia south to California, now widely used as a forestry tree, due to its remarkably fast growth rate and tolerance to soil conditions. May reach l6m (55ft) in 20 years and trees of 90m (300ft) have been recorded in native environment. Male flowers are smaller than other silver firs and are produced only in upper part of the tree and shed pollen in April. The cones are 7-8cm (3in) ripening to dark brown in October from a lovely bright green. Foliage has a strong tangerine smell when crushed and needles have two bright white bands on undersides. Z6.