Herb: Himalayan Fir


Latin name: Abies spectabilis


Synonyms: Abies webbiana, Pinus spectabilis


Family: Pinaceae (Pine Family)



Medicinal use of Himalayan Fir:

The leaves are astringent, carminative, expectorant, stomachic and tonic. The leaf juice used in the treatment of asthma, bronchitis etc. An essential oil obtained from the leaves is used to treat colds, rheumatism and nasal congestion. The leaf juice is antiperiodic.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Evergreen
Tree

Height:
30 m
(98 feet)

Scent:
Scented
Tree

Habitat of the herb:

Forests in Nepal between 2700 - 3900 metres. Moist open areas.

Other uses of Himalayan Fir:

An essential oil is obtained from the plant, though the report does not give yields or uses. The dried leaves, mixed with other ingredients, are used in making incense. The wood is used for construction and thatching roofs. It is also used for fuel.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow early February in a greenhouse or outdoors in March. Germination is often poor, usually taking about 6 - 8 weeks. Stratification is said to produce a more even germination so it is probably best to sow the seed in a cold frame as soon as it is ripe in the autumn. The seed remains viable for up to 5 years if it is well stored. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on for at least their first winter in pots. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Alternatively, if you have sufficient seed, it is possible to sow in an outdoor seedbed. One report says that it is best to grow the seedlings on in the shade at a density of about 550 plants per square metre whilst another report says that they are best grown on in a sunny position.

Cultivation of Himalayan Fir:

Forests in Nepal between 2700 - 3900 metres. Moist open areas.

Known hazards of Abies spectabilis:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.