Balsam fir

Firs, like cedars, differ from other conifers by their cylindrical, erect cones that raise branches like candles. For the first nomadic peoples of North-East America, the balsam fir was of paramount importance. Indeed, its needles and resin were used as a remedy to counter several ailments such as colds, flu, pneumonia and several other respiratory infections. Its branches were also used to make mattresses and pillows. The scientific name for fir is Abies, a Latin word that means “the one who rises”. This is undoubtedly why the fir trees represented the promise of a positive period of forward movement.

Native to eastern Canada and the United States, balsam fir is a conifer that can reach 23 meters. Its trunk is smooth and covered with vesicles filled with antibacterial resin. This resin was widely used by Aboriginal people for its medicinal properties.

This tree represents altruism and positivism.