Abies

Abies grandis ‘Grand Prize’

Grand fir parent tree with golden variegation throughout, Abies grandis 'Grand Prize'!
Abies grandis parent tree with golden variegation throughout, ‘Grand Prize’!

Abies grandis ‘Grand Prize’ is a new cultivar from a golden variegated Pacific grand fir that was discovered while hiking in the eastern Cascade mountain range of Washington state. The golden variegation was present throughout the tree and the new grafts are pushing with yellow variegated foliage that persists throughout the year! It was found by the Davisons on the same day as a fully golden variegated Pinus monticola, ‘Monti’s Gold‘. It was accessed during the winter via snowmobile and the entire tree, which was at least 10 feet tall, was buried under snow. Mike was able to figure out the location based on the surrounding landmarks and dug out a few branches to gather cuttings, and nearly all of the grafted scions pushed.

Abies grandis 'Monti's Gold' buried in snow
Eureka!
Beautiful golden variegation on Pacific grand fir, Abies grandis 'Grand Prize'.
Abies grandis ‘Grand Prize’ with beautiful golden variegation
new golden variegated growth on Abies grandis 'Grand Prize'.
Abies grandis ‘Grand Prize’ graft with new golden variegated growth.