Nordmann Fir 'Robusta'

Nordmann fir 'Robusta' (Abies nordmanniana 'Robusta') is the very tree we know as the perfect Christmas tree, only planted in the garden and kept for life. The crown is a true cone, the branches sit in dense tiers right down to the ground, and the flat, glossy dark green needles show two white bands underneath.

Plant it as a specimen on a spacious plot, in an avenue, or as an evergreen screen that never thins out in winter. A mature tree stands 10-15 m tall and 4.5-7.5 m wide, so this is a plant for a large garden. 'Robusta' was selected precisely for its vigour: over 30 cm a year and more than 4 m in the first ten years.

Key characteristics:

• What makes it special: The cones stand upright on the branches like candles and never fall whole: once ripe they disintegrate on the tree, leaving bare spindles behind.
• Dimensions: A mature tree reaches 10.7-15.2 m tall and 4.6-7.6 m wide.
• Hardiness: Hardy down to -34 °C (USDA zone 4).
• Light: Full sun or partial shade, and best of all an open, sunny spot.
• Soil: It likes rich, acidic, constantly moist and well-drained soil; on heavy clay it grows poorly.
• Watering: Medium watering: the soil should stay constantly, moderately moist and never dry out.
• Care: Care is moderate and pruning unnecessary; in hot spells keep an eye out for spider mite and adelgids.
• Landscape use: A majestic specimen for a spacious plot, an avenue, an evergreen screen or your own Christmas tree.