ZLV Online

Abstract

Noble fir ((Abies procera Rehd.) is a tree species originating from the Pacific Northwest region of North America. In the Czech Republic, this tree species rarely occurs in forest stands. This paper brings basic information on the species natural distribution as well as information concerning its biological characteristics, site condition demands and general experience with this species management in European countries. Our findings based on assessments of three research plots established in the Czech Republic are also presented. These research plots are part of a IUFRO project established during the period of 1984–1986. Research plots Dražičky, Herálec and Habr are situated on different sites in various forest areas. Evaluation of quantitative characteristics (DBH and height growth) together with progenies vitality evaluation was carried out in 2009–2010. Current findings indicate that provenances originated from central part of their natural distribution show the best growth, while the slowest growth has been recognized in provenance No. 21 – Stevens Pass from the northernmost part of its area of origin. In locations in the Czech Republic where noble fir has suffered decline were on moisture gley soils and in these areas were particularly damaged by the fungus of the genus Armillaria. In 2008, the first fructification was documented in the Dražičky research plot.