• Sinclair, Stevens A
  U.S. Department of Agriculture
  
• Barnes, Douglas P.
  U.S. Department of Agriculture
  

Balsam Fir, Abies Balsamera, is a small to medium size tree that reaches a height of 40-60 feet (12-118 M) and a diameter of 12-18 inches (30-60 cm). It is a highly tolerant species of the boreal forest and often is found in relatively pure stands or with white spruce, Picea Glauca (Moench); aspen, popular app; and birch, Bertula spp. Balsam fir typically establishes itself from seed under heavy shade. The species is a relatively short lived tree, most trees over 90 yrs old have a high percentage of heart rot. (Heineken 1957)