Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Abies x koreocarpa 'Tannja'
Tannja Korean Fir
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Height
- 4 to 8 ft
- Width
- 3 to 6 ft
- Flower color
- None; produces small cones, not flowers
- Foliage color
- Bright silvery-blue evergreen needles
- Light
- Full sun to mostly sun
- Water
- Regular to occasional watering
- Maintenance
- Low; needs little pruning
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 5 to 8
- Wildlife
- Dense foliage offers year-round shelter for small birds and wildlife; pollen and small cones may provide food or nesting material for some birds and small mammals
About this plant
Abies x koreocarpa 'Tannja' is a dwarf evergreen conifer with a compact, rounded habit and short, glossy needles that display soft blue-green tones. The needles curve slightly upward to reveal pale undersides, giving the plant a full, layered look. Branching is dense and even, creating a tidy mound that develops slowly over time. In spring, small pollen cones and developing seed cones appear among the new growth.
This selection was introduced from German breeding work focused on hardy, slow-growing conifers. 'Tannja' is valued for its steady growth, neat form, and year-round color, making it well suited to rock gardens, foundation plantings, and mixed conifer groupings where a compact evergreen accent is desired.
Works well in
Foundation Plantings · Rock Gardens · Specimen Plants · Borders
Companion plants
Camas · Oregon grape · Coreopsis · Blanket flower · Phlox · Bulgarian honey garlic
Design tip
Place this compact fir near a path, entry, or patio where its unique shape and color can be enjoyed year-round. Surround it with flowering perennials and other evergreens to create a planting that looks balanced and interesting in every season.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at Vista Gardens.
