fir

Encyclopedia Article

Article

Also known as Douglas fir, this tree is the largest of the evergreens native to New Mexico and Arizona. It is a major source of timber is widely distributed in mountainous habitats of between 5, 000-10,000 feet. Firs grow in groves of their own as well as in mixed areas of ponderosa pines, spruces, and other high-elevation trees. Native Americans in the Southwest have used the branches, cones, and berries of firs for various ceremonial and healing purposes, and today it is also the preferred Christmas tree in the region.

Photo Credit: 

 
"Grove of Douglas Fir, San Antonio Wilderness, Northern New Mexico, May 26, 2011" by Bob Wick, BLM California is licensed under CC BY.

Published Works: