Abies procera Rehd. Noble Fir
Native to Washington and Oregon at altitudes of 600-1500m (2000-5000ft) cultivated elsewhere for its timber which is close grained and useful in building. Also valuable as an ornamental tree. Growth is rapid after a few years, reaching 45-60m (150-200ft) in its native environment, though rather less in cultivation. Male flowers shed pollen in May and females form distinctive cones, 20-25cm (9-10in) long, with toothed downward pointing bracts, which almost cover the cone. Cones may be produced on relatively small trees, 5m (l5ft). Foliage is bluish and strongly parted on undersides of twigs, the needles sweeping upwards. Bark is pale grey or purplish and splits into long deep cracks with age. Z5.