Friends of Westonbirt Arboretum

Tree of the Month - December 2015

Posted: November 24, 2015 at 20:37 pm Author: Dan Crowley

What is tree of the month?

Abies numidica (Algerian fir)

Algerian fir

Why is it tree of the month?

Critically Endangered in the wild, Abies numidica is one of the world’s rarest true firs. It only grows wild in Algeria, where threats to its natural habitat include fire, grazing and wood use for fuel. Also rare in cultivation, its form and foliage are quite distinctive when you get to know it – seek it out!

Where can I find it?

A fine specimen grows just off Holford Ride close to Loop Walk in the Old Arboretum. Another sizeable tree is on Mitchell Drive, close to the junction with Loop Walk. See the interactive map for more detail!