ABIES PROCERA 'BLAUE HEXE'

This particular selection originated in Germany about 1979 from a witches' broom. It grows very slowly and develops into a low, broad, rounded bush about 18 inches (50 cm) wide and 6 inches (9 cm) high in 15 years. It has the same bright blue color as Abies procera 'Glauca'.

Another selection, Abies procera 'Jeddeloh' has a similar growth habit but is not nearly as blue.

We are presently evaluating two newer selections out of the Czech Republic- Abies procera 'Pesek' and Abies procera 'Robenek'- to see how they compare to this excellent selection.

Abies procera 'Blaue Hexe' is an excellent selection for the rock garden or any other location where a bright blue mound is desired for observation throughout the year.

Our plants are propagated by grafting. We use Abies procera as the understock to help prevent the formation of a large mass of unsightly callous tissue, which occasionally happens with balsamea and fraseri understock.

We have an excellent supply of large #1 container (1 gallon) plants presently available for sale.

 This selection is growing in Boskoop, Holland and presents an excellent contrast with the red rocks and other dwarf conifers surrounding it. Notice the nice variety of shapes and colors in this area of the garden.

 A closeup of the previous picture.

 In this garden, the 'Blaue Hexe' is very old and has been planted where it can be observed very close to eye level.

 I observed this plant in a Dutch garden where it had been growing for over 20 years. Pesticide had killed much of the plant when it was applied in error. Now the open growth habit is actually quite interesting.

 When 'Blaue Hexe' is grafted on a standard, it makes a very interesting addition to the more formal garden.