… the tree …

Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea)

          Balsamea Forest Refuge is named for the majestic spires and fragrant needles of its most populous tree, Abies balsamea, a popular conifer in the New York Adirondack and New England regions, commonly known as Balsam Fir, a close cousin of the Fraser Fir endemic to the southern Appalachian Mountains.

Other names for the tree

          The Balsam Fir is also known as the Canadian Balsam.  Other common names are Eastern Fir, Bracted Balsam Fir and Blister Fir (owing to resinous sap-filled blisters in the bark).  It is sometimes called the Balm of Gilead Tree, although that name is more correctly associated with the Middle Eastern “Balsam of Mecca” (Commiphora gileadensis, Commiphora meccanensis or Commiphora opobalsamum), probably the balm referred to in Genesis 37:25 and other Bible passages.

Aromatic balm

          The word “balm” derives from the Latin balsamum, a word with Semitic roots, meaning an aromatic preparation or healing ointment, a spicy aromatic odor, or a soothing restorative agency.  Indeed, if you rub or crush fresh balsam fir needles in your fingers and inhale the aroma, it is uplifting to the mind.

Uses

          Balsam Fir has many uses.  The sap has medicinal uses as a balm.  Balsam Fir is one of the most popular Christmas trees, well known for its fragrant needles lasting a long time in holiday season decorations including wreaths and sprays, often made into aromatic pillows and potpourri sachets for scenting clothing and linens, or to make incense and a tea from the foliage.  Balsam wood, sap, cones and inner bark have many other industrial, medicinal and nutritional uses for humans and wildlife.

          Learn more about the balsam fir from the links below.