Balsam Fir

Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea)

These interesting trees are the most abundant tree in the state of Maine and North America’s most widely distributed fir. Balsam Firs prosper in moist, acidic soil from swamps to mountains. They are medium sized trees, generally growing to about 4-60 feet tall with a 1-1.5 foot diameter. Their bark is covered with prominent blisters, filled with a resinous liquid. This clear pitch, known as “Canada balsam”, is collected and used to mount microscope slides and to attach theatrical costumes to bare skin. Very cool.