Grand fir (Abies grandis) growing next to Dunkeld Cathedral, Perthshire (July, 2022).
As both its common and scientific names suggest, this is a tree of grand proportions. The grand fir is the largest species of fir, growing (so far) up to 60m in the UK and taller in its native range. A speciment growing in Ardkinglas Woodland Garden, Scotland, was once considered the tallest tree in the UK. It measures just over 66m (~217ft).
In the tree’s juvenile stage, it retains a regular, conical shape making it a very attractive tree. With age it can become quite massive and irregular in shape. Though losing its neat shape, I wouldn’t consider it to be ugly by any means. But what it may lack in symmetry, it makes up for with character!
Me standing in front of the giant trunk of the grand fir beside Dunkeld Cathedral, Perthshire (July, 2022).
Looking up at the great height. Dunkeld, Perthshire (July, 2022).
*Update 2023*
The grand fir outside Dunkeld Cathedral has since been felled sadly. This photo depicts all that is left of this former giant. (June, 2023).
There is, however, another very substantial grand fir growing near Dunkeld Cathedral. Growing close to the River Tay and within the perimeter of the Cathedral’s grounds, this A. grandis is likely similar in height to the other grand fir which is sadly no longer standing.
A. grandis measuring over 50m tall in Diana’s Grove, Blair Castle, Perthshire. (June, 2023).
Diana’s Grove contains many tall trees including: Abies grandis, Abies procera, Picea sitchensis, Pseudotsuga menziesii, Sequoiadendron giganteum and many more wonderfully tall trees. (June 2023).
The largest grand fir in Diana’s Grove, Blair Castle, Perthshire. This tree measures over 60m tall. (June, 2024).
The massive grand fir (left) at Diana’s Grove grows alongside a less massive, but equally tall Douglas fir (right). (June, 2024).