The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Verkade's Prostrate balsam fir

Family: Pinaceae (pine family)

Distribution: Species native to n. North America

Hardiness: USDA Zone 3

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: This dwarf evergreen conifer grows as a densely branched, prostate, slow-growing shrub. If a vertical central leader forms, it should be removed to preserve the low-growing habit. Needles are light green when young, later maturing to dark green. Typical rate of growth in most areas is 1 1/2 - 2" (4-6 cm) per year, resulting in a flattened shrub, 18-24" (45-60 cm) wide after 10 years.