Form: This is a large tree, reaching heights of 90 to 120 ft. and a dbh of 1 1/2 to 2 ft. It has a rounded crown.

Needles:
             

Arrangement: spirally arranged

Length: 1-2 in long

Shape: 4-angled; grooved above;curves at base

Other: bluish-white

 

Bark: The bark has a grayish-green color and is blistered. When mature is becomes purplish-gray to reddish-brown with narrow ridges that are broken into rectangular blocks.

Cones: The cones are 4 to 6" long and the scales are deciduous, falling from cones as seeds ripen. They have an olive-brown color and the bracts are longer than scales plus they turn down.

Distinguishing characteristics: The tree has a rounded crown, cylindrical cones, blistered bark, and needles are surreally arranged.

Range: This species has smallest range of western firs. It occurs in the Cascade range in Washington south to northern California.

Silvics: This species is intolerant and occurs on deep, moist sites.

Ecological and cultural importance: This species is heavily logged because it has the best wood quality of the true firs. The wood is  light and straight grained so it is used in aircrafts. The wood is also used in specialty applications. Most notably, this species has been heavily exported to Japan. In addition, it provides cover for wildlife.