Glauca Prostrata Noble Fir

Glauca Prostrata Noble Fir (Abies procera 'Glauca Prostrata')

Glauca Prostrata Noble Fir is a prostrate, slow-growing selection of noble fir with striking powder blue needles on layered, spreading branches. Its low, architectural habit provides year-round color and texture for rock gardens, walls, and mixed conifer plantings in cool-summer sites.

Distinctive Features

Dense, horizontal branching carries vividly blue needles for strong winter interest, and the plant can be staked to form a short leader or left to drape naturally. Refined texture and low profile create a polished, ground-hugging specimen.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade in hotter regions to reduce stress.
• Soil: Well drained, slightly acidic, humus-rich soil; avoid compacted or waterlogged sites.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during establishment; moderate water thereafter with no standing water.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 1 to 2 ft tall and 4 to 8 ft wide in 10 years, larger with age or staking.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Blue needles and layered structure create a year-round accent in small spaces.
• Rock and Alpine Gardens: Low, spreading habit suits raised, sharply drained sites.
• Cascading Over Walls: Drapes elegantly along stonework and terraces.
• Mixed Conifers: Contrasts beautifully with gold and deep green evergreens.
• Foundation Planting: Compact spread softens edges without blocking windows.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and infrequently once established, increasing during prolonged heat.
• Pruning: Minimal; remove damaged shoots in late winter and stake a leader only if a bit of height is desired.
• Fertilizing: Apply a light, acid-forming, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if soil tests indicate need.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 inch ring of bark or leaf mold to keep roots cool and evenly moist, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Notes: Provide afternoon shade and wind protection in hot or exposed sites to preserve needle color and prevent scorch.

Why Choose Glauca Prostrata Noble Fir?

• Year-Round Color: Intense blue needles brighten the landscape in every season.
• Dwarf, Spreading Habit: Fits foundations, courtyards, and tight beds.
• Textural Contrast: Soft, layered needles pair well with stones and broad-leaved shrubs.
• Low Input: Minimal pruning and moderate water needs once established.
• Design Versatility: Train upright slightly or allow to cascade naturally for different looks.

Site in morning sun with afternoon shade in warmer areas, ensure sharp drainage and steady moisture, and stake lightly only if a touch of height is desired.