Also known as Fraser’s Fir, this species is named after its original plant collector, Scotsman John Fraser (1750–1811) who, in 1807, sent seed from his expedition in North America to a nursery in London.

Native to the eastern USA, including Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

Some taxonomists believe (based on limited genetic studies) that this is a subspecies or variety of Balsam Fir, while morphological differences suggest that the two species are distinct (but possibly only due to latitude). Monoecious.

Moderate (15-25m). Needles dark green above, pointing up on the upper rank and flatter below. Female cones small (8cm), borne at the very top, with very large bracts that often obscure the scales. Cones disintegrate on the tree, so are rarely seen whole. Balsam Fir differs: bracts do not extend beyond the scales.

Several hybrids and cultivars are in production, either for Christmas trees or horticultural use, including dwarf varieties.

No notable associations where introduced.

Balsam Woolly Adelgid (Adelges piceae) has devastated natural populations, and the pest is also present in Europe.

In favourable climates (especially Ireland and northern Britain), this is an attractive specimen tree. Long popular in the USA as a Christmas tree, thanks to its fragrance and stature, but the adelgid pest limits its cultivation in Europe.