Abies concolor 'Candicans Pygmy' / Candicans Pygmy white fir

Abies concolor 'Candicans Pygmy' is a dwarf version of 'Candicans', with similar bright-blue foliage and pyramidal plant structure. The only significant difference between it and its better-known namesake is that 'Candicans Pygmy' grows at only one quarter the rate of 'Candicans.' A mature plant will only measure 3 feet (1 m) tall and two-thirds as wide after 10 years in the garden, a rate of growth of only 2.5 to 3 inches (6 - 7.5 cm) per year, making it a perfect choice for those who lack the space for the larger cultivar.

This cultivar originated in 1972 as a seedling selected by Renault Frere Nursery, Gorron, France. It is commonly seen listed with the illegitimate cultivar name, Abies concolor 'Candicans Nana.'

Abies concolor 'Candicans Pygmy' — a mature specimen.
Photo by Bill Barger
Abies concolor 'Candicans Pygmy' — a closeup of foliage detail.
Photo by Bill Barger

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