"The Balsam Fir, 'Abies balsamea', exhibits a relatively dense, dark-green," pyramidal crown with a slender spire-like tip. The scientific name ""balsamea"" is an ancient word for the balsam tree", so named because of the many resinous blisters found in the bark. Balsam fir and Fraser fir have many similar characteristics.The species thrives in cooler climates and demands abundant soil moisture and a humid atmosphere. A large percentage of Christmas trees are Balsam Firs."