Abies koreana Aurea (Korean Fir)

Abies koreana ‘Aurea’ (Korean Fir) is a desirable evergreen conifer of globe-shaped habit when young, becoming broadly pyramidal over time. Its ascending branches boast short, bright golden-yellow needles adorned with silvery-white undersides in the spring. As the season progresses, the golden coloration takes on a softer shade, almost turning light green. Abundant purple cones are held upright along the branches, creating a lovely contrast against the foliage. A slow grower, 3-6 in. per year (7-15 cm), this golden Korean Fir makes an eye-catching specimen accent. Mature plants can tolerate full sun, but juvenile plants prefer some shade.

Abies koreana 'Aurea' (Korean Fir) is a desirable evergreen conifer of globe-shaped habit when young, becoming broadly pyramidal over time. Its ascending branches boast short, bright golden-yellow needles adorned with silvery-white undersides in the spring. As the season progresses, the golden coloration takes on a softer shade, almost turning light green. Abundant purple cones are held upright along the branches, creating a lovely contrast against the foliage. A slow grower, 3-6 in. per year (7-15 cm), this golden Korean Fir makes an eye-catching specimen accent. Mature plants can tolerate full sun, but juvenile plants prefer some shade.

  • Grows up to 25 ft. high (750 cm) and 15 ft. wide (450 cm).
  • Performs best in full sun in rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils. More tolerant of heat and humidity than most firs but performs best in cooler climates.
  • Virtually disease free. Watch for aphids and adelgids. Easy to grow, easy to care for and rarely browsed by deer.
  • No pruning required.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 7

Heat Zones 6

Climate Zones 3, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Conifers, Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Abies – Firs
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 20'
– 25'
(6m
– 7.5m)
Spread 10'
– 15'
(3m
– 4.5m)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries
Tolerance Deer, Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden