White Fir
Abies concolor
Also known as: Colorado Fir, Concolor Fir, Colorado White Fir
White Fir is a western North American softwood appreciated for its nearly white color and ease of working. Often marketed as a substitute for Ponderosa Pine, it serves well in interior applications where its attractive appearance and workability are valued over strength and durability.
Botanical Profile
Abies concolor is a large coniferous tree native to the mountains of western North America, from Oregon and Colorado south to Mexico. Trees typically reach 25-50 meters in height with diameters up to 2 meters, growing at elevations of 900-3,400 meters.
Physical Properties
White Fir has a density of approximately 420 kg/m³ when dried and a Janka hardness of 410 lbf. The wood is nearly white to pale yellow with straight, even grain and fine to medium texture. Specific gravity is 0.36, making it one of the lighter softwoods.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - gentle on cutting tools
Gluing Advice
Glues well with standard wood adhesives
Finishing
Takes stains and finishes evenly due to low resin content
Steam Bending
Poor - insufficient strength for steam bending applications
Historical Context
White Fir has been commercially harvested since the late 1800s in the western United States. Native Americans used the wood for basic construction and the pitch for waterproofing. Today it remains an important commercial species for lumber and pulp production.
Technical Specs
Nearly white to pale yellow heartwood with minimal sapwood distinction
Not listed in CITES, sustainably managed in most areas