CFraser Fir (Abies fraseri): This conifer is the only fir endemic to the southern Appalachian Mountains, where it is restricted to high elevations in Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. It is a small to medium tree reaching about 80 feet. It is stated to be hardy to –15 o F but it is grown in southeast South Dakota for Christmas trees, which is in zone 4 (- 30 o F). Under favorable conditions of good soil, adequate moisture, and full sun this fir will grow nearly 12 inches annually. This species lives to be about 150 years old. The root system is shallow where it normally is found growing over bedrock but much deeper on good soils where roots will penetrate to 24 inches. It is classified as very shade tolerant but grows more rapidly with some sun. The rooting system is sufficiently limited to endanger the tree from high winds.