Abies koreana Luminetta - Korean Fir

Abies koreana Luminetta is a variety of Korean fir of modest size, forming a magnificent bush with a very architectural pyramidal habit. Its layered branches, covered with shiny green needles, revealing a silver underside, attract light and attention. In spring, its light yellow and vibrant young shoots, at the end of the branches enhance its foliage, and even on young specimens, they mingle with small upright cones of a pretty, powdery blue-violet hue. This small fir tree, with its modest size and presence, will easily become the focal point of a large rock garden or a small garden, in cool but well-drained soil, protected from scorching sun.

The Korean fir is a conifer of the pine family, originating only from the mountains in the extreme south of Korea. This conifer reaches a height of 6 to 9m (20-29ft) in its natural environment and has a compact habit. The 'Luminetta' variety is even smaller, it will not exceed 2m (6.5ft) in height and 80cm (31.5 in) in width at 10 years. 'Luminetta' has a dense, pyramidal habit, composed of layered branches where shiny needles grow, medium green on the top, silver underneath. Its new shoots are a bright yellow, and mix with pretty powdery blue-violet upright cones from a young age.

The Abies koreana 'Luminetta' is ideal for adorning a large rock garden or standing out in a small garden thanks to its very dense presence and moderate stature. With its majestic silhouette, it will work wonders in the centre of a bed of perennials and low-growing conifers, especially if planted in groups of 3 specimens. The architectural qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over flowers. These plants with strong personalities structurally define a bed, mark pathways, border terraces and easily replace the strong presence of trimmed boxwood. They serve as a backdrop for roses, peonies, or wild grasses with a very complementary temperament, which in return will showcase their full intensity. They can also be associated with ground cover plants such as aubrietas, cerastiums, and flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colours.