Starker's Dwarf Korean Fir

Starker's Dwarf Korean Fir (Abies koreana 'Starker's Dwarf')

Starker's Dwarf Korean Fir is a compact, slow-growing conifer with short, upturned needles that reveal bright silver undersides; its dense, rounded to broadly conical habit and occasional violet-purple upright cones provide four-season sparkle for small gardens and containers.

Distinctive Features

Curled, bi-color needles create a frosted look in light and breeze, while the naturally tight framework holds a crisp outline with minimal pruning; showy cones may appear even on young plants.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun in cool-summer regions; provide light afternoon shade in hotter climates.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter; avoid heavy, waterlogged sites.
• Water: Keep evenly moist during establishment; deep, occasional soaks in extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 7.
• Mature Size: About 2 to 4 ft tall and 3 to 5 ft wide in 10 years, slowly enlarging with age.
• Soil pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, about 5.0 to 6.5.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Silver-tipped needles and compact mound create a striking specimen near entries.
• Rock Garden: Low, textural form fits among stones and troughs.
• Foundation Planting: Adds four-season structure without overwhelming the space.
• Container Specimen: Excellent in patio pots with sharp drainage.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain steady moisture the first 2 to 3 years; irrigate deeply in drought and allow the surface to dry slightly between soakings.
• Pruning: Minimal; remove only dead or wayward shoots after new growth hardens, preserving the leader.
• Fertilizing: Light spring feeding for acid-loving evergreens if growth is weak; avoid excess nitrogen.
• Mulching: Apply 2 to 3 in of fine bark to conserve moisture, cool roots, and suppress weeds.
• Notes: Ensure excellent drainage and good air flow; protect from reflected heat to prevent needle scorch.

Why Choose Starker's Dwarf Korean Fir?

• Shimmering Needles: Upturned, silver-backed foliage reads luminous year-round.
• Dwarf Habit: Naturally compact size is ideal for small gardens and containers.
• Refined Structure: Dense, tidy form needs little shaping.
• Seasonal Interest: Occasional purple cones add a unique accent.

Select Starker's Dwarf to bring durable, silver-kissed texture and elegant, small-scale conifer structure to sunny, well-drained, acidic sites.