Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii
Critchfield red fir
Photo: parent species Abies magnifica · (c) Matt Berger, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Matt Berger · licence
Family: Pinaceae · Type: Tree · Native
Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii (Critchfield red fir) is a native California tree in the Pinaceae family, recognized by unknown range data limits confidence.
Critchfield red fir is a native shrub found in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in mixed-conifer to subalpine forests at elevations of 2,010 to 2,850 meters. While no specific flowering time is noted, this tree produces distinctive seed cones 9 to 17 centimeters long with exposed bracts that become reflexed when mature. Growing as a compact shrubby form, it develops a distinctive conical shape characteristic of high-elevation conifers. Its needles are likely dark green and arranged radially around branches, typical of fir species in alpine environments. The seed cones are particularly notable, with bracts that partially cover the cone surface and create a textured, layered appearance when mature.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: Geographically isolated; unknown range data limits confidence
Habitat and range
Habitat: Mixed-conifer to subalpine forests
Elevation: 2010-2850 m
How to tell it apart
vs Pseudotsuga: Fir cones stand upright and disintegrate on tree; Douglas-fir cones hang down with pitchfork bracts and fall intact.; vs Pinus: Fir needles attach individually to smooth twigs; pine needles come bundled in groups of 2-5.; vs Picea: Fir twigs are smooth after needle drop; spruce twigs have rough, persistent peg-like bumps.; vs Sequoia: Fir has individual flat needles and upright cones; redwood has flat sprays of scale-like leaves and small round cones.; vs Cedrus: Fir needles attach individually to smooth twigs; cedar needles grow in dense rosettes on short shoots with barrel-shaped cones.
Frequently asked questions
Is Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii native to California?
Yes. Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii is native to California (recorded as native).
What plant family does Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii belong to?
Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii is in the Pinaceae family, genus Abies.
What habitat does Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii grow in?
Abies magnifica var. critchfieldii grows in Mixed-conifer to subalpine forests.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-10-07
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.