Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica Compacta - Fir

Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica 'Compacta' is a variety of subalpine fir with a reduced size and stocky habit, forming a well-compact pyramid, with a neat appearance and a pretty grey-blue colour. With its slow growth and small size, this Rocky Mountain fir is suitable for small gardens. It will also thrive in a large rockery.

Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica is an evergreen conifer from the pinaceae family. It is a subspecies of the subalpine fir, widespread in western North America, growing in the mountains of Arizona and New Mexico. In nature, this fir reaches a height of about 20m (66ft). The Abies lasiocarpa var. arizonica 'Compacta', as its name suggests, is a form that represents a miniature version of the arizonica subspecies. With very slow growth, this fir will not exceed 4m (13ft) in height and 2.50m (8ft) to 3m (10ft) in diameter at the base, after many years. It has an enlarged pyramid shape, very dense, with many branches emerging from the trunk. The bark is greyish and smooth, becoming rough and fissured over time. The foliage emits a characteristic balsamic scent when crushed and consists of short needles, measuring 2-3cm (1in), green on the top with two silver bands on the underside. The overall colour of the foliage is a bluish-green with silver highlights. This beautiful colour will be more pronounced in summer and in slightly dry soil. This conifer can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils. Its root system is both deep and finely branched, allowing it to withstand wind and periods of drought. It prefers a sheltered position away from intense sunlight.

Abies lasiocarpa 'Compacta' can be used as a single specimen, in the garden or in a large rockery. Its fir-like silhouette and bright foliage make it an attractive subject all year round, even in winter. The architectural qualities of dwarf conifers naturally blend into a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over flowers. These plants with strong personalities structurally enhance a flower bed, mark pathways, and border terraces. They form a beautiful association with tousled grasses with a very complementary form. They can also be associated with ground cover plants such as aubrietas and cerastiums. Consider planting small spring bulbs or Naples cyclamens near their base. The key is to play with volumes and colours.