It is known for its dark green color, soft needles, stiff branches (great for hanging heavy ornaments), and has good needle retention.

The nursery closed in 1916.įraser fir is currently one of the most popular Christmas trees.

The nursery was unique in that it specialized in native trees and shrubs, unlike most nurseries that focused on European and Asian varieties (still very common today). With his three sons, he started the Thomas Meehan & Sons Nursuries in 1896. Thomas Meehan immigrated to the United States from England in 1848 and started a landscaping business. The person who collected this specimen and the date of collection are unknown. This specimen of Fraser fir ( Abies fraseri) was collected in Philadelphia at the Thomas Meehan & Sons Nursery. Plus, some species grow faster and easier than others, which means some species are cheaper. Similarly, branching characteristics and branch strength differs by species. Needle length, softness, retention, color, and even scent vary by species or variety. Many different evergreen conifer species are cultivated in the US for decorative use during the holidays. The popularity of certain species for this use has changed through time. Collected on some day, probably between 101-122 years ago.Īround 25-30 million cut trees are sold each year in the United States for the holidays.

Frazer fir