Balsam Fir

Balsam fir is another Christmas tree favorite which is similar to the Fraiser fir. It is named after the many resinous blisters on its ash grey bark. On older trees, the bark darkens to a reddish brown color with scales. On lower branches, the needles tend to form rows on either side of the branch. On older branches, these needles develop a slight upward curve. The needles themselves are flat and may have blunt or notched ends. They also have a circular base, with a lighter green underneath. The cones are a dark purple and perched on the branches pointing upright.

The wood is soft and brittle. It is used for light structural frames when weight is a factor, and also for pulpwood. The resin was the original chewed gum. The tree itself is the least fire restistant of the North American conifers, which is reflected in the fact that the resinous fir knots used to be used as torches. The resin was also used as a medical balm for external applications.