Abies koreana 'Kohout's Icebreaker'
Kohouts Icebreaker is a very fine, relatively new dwarf cultivar of Korean fir. The strongly-curled needles of this conifer show off silvery undersides that make the species distinctive. Branches are short, stubby and radial. Young plants will be globose, later developing a leader, eventually becoming a small tree. Typical rate of growth in most areas is 1 to 3 inches (2.5 ? 7.5 cm) per year, resulting in a shimmering silvery specimen, 2 feet (60 cm) tall and wide after 10 years in the garden.
About this plant
Fir Abies
Firs (Abies) are evergreen conifers of the Northern Hemisphere, mostly from cool mountain forests. They are recognised by their conical shape, soft flat needles with two pale bands underneath and cones that stand upright on the branches. Many slow-growing garden forms stay compact, which makes them easy to fit into smaller gardens.
Korean fir Abies koreana
The Korean fir is a compact, slow-growing fir from the mountains of southern Korea, where it has become rare. Its short, broad needles are glossy green above and silvery beneath. It is prized for its upright cones, which turn a striking violet-blue and appear even on young plants.
Location and soil
Korean fir needs a fertile, moist but well-drained, slightly acidic soil, sandy or loamy rather than chalky, in sun or partial shade. It prefers a cool position sheltered from scorching sun and does poorly in wet soil, heavy clay or polluted air. It is very hardy.
Pruning and care
Plant in February-March or October-November. Korean fir keeps its neat pyramidal or cushion shape naturally and does not need pruning. Water regularly in the first years and during hot, dry periods, and mulch to keep the root zone cool.
Use in the garden
With its modest size and early cone display, Korean fir makes an eye-catching specimen for small gardens, front gardens and large rock gardens. Dwarf forms suit containers on a terrace and mixed plantings with heathers and low shrubs.
Characteristics
Botanical
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Abies |
| Species | koreana |
| Cultivar | 'Kohout's Icebreaker' |
Growth habit
| Height | 50 cm, 100 cm |
Location
| Winter hardiness | -35 °C |
| Location | sun, half shade |
Use
| Type (use) | bonsai, solitary, conifer |