Hoyt Arboretum, Portland, Oregon, USA

Common name: Spanish Fir

Family: Pinaceae

Distribution: Spain; Sierra de Grazalema, Sierra de las Nieves and Sierra Bermeja

Habitat: Andalusian mountains, altitudes of 900–1,700 metres

IUCN Red list: Endangered

Black list: Unknown risk alien

Hardiness: Zone 7a 0 to 5 F

Life form: Evergreen conifer

Usage: Ornamental shade tree

Comments: Abies pinsapo occurs in two discrete and disjunct areas in southeastern Spain and in the Rif Mountains of Morocco. These are separated by the Straits of Gibraltar and a distance of about 135 km. The tree has a uniformly conical shape much like many conifers, and dense blue-green foliage. Its cones are a purplish-brown color, and grow upright on branches to a length of about 7 inches. The tree can reach 100’, needles are sharp tipped and radially arranged, short and blue green in color. Branching has a geometrical uniformity that many people find attractive.
Best grown in moderately rich, slightly acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade.