Fir tree

Laura Bush watching the Christmas tree- a fraser fir- arrive

The fir tree is a tree of the genus Pinaceae. They have needles in place of leaves, and their seeds grow in cones instead of fruits. For the latter reason they are known scientifically as "conifers", or "firs" for short. Fir trees are found throughout the Americas and Eurasia, generally in high-altitude regions such as Appalachia and the altiplano of Argentina. Common varieties of fir include the Douglas fir and the bristlecone.

The fir is a hardy tree, often planted in stately rows as part of a landscaping. Fir trees have tiny cones and do not drop their needles, which makes them suitable for low-maintenance dwellings.

## Uses[edit]

Fir wood is unsuitable for timber, and provides poor lumber support. However, its woody pulp can be used to manufacture plywood and paper. Firs also give us fur, for coats; and wool in the wintertime. Because firs do not drop their needles, the Balsam fir makes a popular Christmas tree.