White fir (Abies concolor)
Also known as: Dragon Tree, Dracaena Marginata
Dracaena marginata, often called the Dragon Tree, hails from Madagascar. This popular ornamental plant is recognized for its elegant, upright growth and distinctive narrow green leaves edged in red.
In This Article
Attributes of White fir
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Height
6-15 feet indoors
Spread
2-10 feet
Leaf Color
Green with red edges
Flower Size
Small, less than 1 inch
Flower Color
White or light pink
Images of White fir
Quickly Identify White fir
1
The Dragon Tree can be identified by its long, narrow leaves with a red edge, its distinctive cane-like stems, and its ability to grow upright and reach up to 6 feet or more indoors.
Scientific Classification of White fir
Phylum
Magnoliophyta
Class
Monocotyledonae
Order
Asparagales
Family
Asparagaceae
Genus
Dracaena
Species
White fir
Planting and Growing of White fir
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
50-75℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
5.5-8
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water White fir?
Abies concolor prefers soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. The goal is to ensure the soil around the root ball is evenly moist, with about 1000 milliliters per watering session. Be sure to check the soil moisture with your fingers; it should be moist a few inches deep.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered White fir?
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What should I do if my White fir is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered White fir?
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How to save an overwatered White fir?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for White fir?
Abies concolor prefers a light range of full sun to partial sun, making it highly adaptable. Ideal lighting boosts needle density and pigment, ensuring a vibrant appearance.
More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→
What is the ideal light for Abies concolor?
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How can I achieve this ideal lighting?
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What benefits does ideal lighting provide?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for White fir?
Abies concolor, commonly known as the white fir, thrives best within a temperature range of 50°F to 75°F. In this range, the plant is able to efficiently carry out photosynthesis and maintain optimal growth rates, ensuring it develops strong roots and a lush canopy. Above or below this temperature range, growth rates may slow, and the plant might become susceptible to stress.
What Soil is Best for White fir?
White fir, scientifically known as Abies concolor, thrives best in well-drained soil. This type of soil prevents waterlogging, which is crucial to avoid root rot and ensure healthy growth. Good drainage allows roots to breathe and access necessary nutrients efficiently. While good drainage is important, the soil must also retain adequate moisture without becoming soggy. White fir benefits from consistent moisture, especially in its early years, to establish a robust root system. Abies concolor flourishes in soils rich in organic matter. Nutrient-rich soils provide essential minerals that support vigorous growth and enhance the tree's resilience against pests and diseases.
How to Fertilize White fir?
For Abies concolor, it's crucial to use a balanced fertilizer. It's recommended to apply about half a pound of 10-10-10 fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter, distributed evenly under the tree canopy.
How to Prune White fir?
Begin by inspecting the overall shape of the tree. Remove any branches that disrupt its natural symmetry. Focus on dead or crossed branches, and make cuts just outside the branch collar. Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp, clean tools, and make cuts at a slight angle to allow water run-off, reducing risk of rot and disease. For branches that appear diseased, cut back to healthy wood, making sure to remove the fungus or affected area completely. Dispose of these branches away from the tree to prevent re-infection.
More About Pruning Techniques→
How to Propagate White fir plant?
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Collect seeds from mature cones in late summer or autumn. Ensure that seeds are fully ripened, which is indicated by their ability to shake loose from cones easily. Viable seeds should be dark and firm to the touch.
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Select healthy branches from the mother plant for cutting propagation. Optimal cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long. Remove lower needles to expose the stem, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to promote root development.
3
Choose a compatible rootstock for grafting. Make a careful slice on both the rootstock and the scion to expose the cambium layers. Align and bind them tightly using grafting tape or wax, keeping them moist until the graft union heals.
How to Repot White fir plant?
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Abies concolor should be repotted when growth has slowed, roots are circling excessively, or they protrude through the drainage holes. Usually, these signs indicate that the plant has outgrown its container and needs more room to expand. Ideally, repot during spring or autumn for optimal growth.
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Select a pot that is 2-4 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. A slightly larger pot allows roots to expand efficiently, promoting better growth without overwhelming the plant.
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Opt for a well-draining loamy soil mix that holds moisture without staying soggy. This type of soil prevents root rot while providing essential nutrients, allowing the roots to breathe and facilitating better growth for your Abies concolor.
