FRAMING 2005
Hem-Fir

Hem-Fir species group

In the Western Woods region, the 12 contiguous Western states plus Alaska, there are approximately 20 commercially important species well suited to softwood lumber production. While each has unique characteristics, physical and mechanical working properties, making it appropriate for specific applications, these Western softwood species are grouped into six primary combinations. These combinations simplify production, inventories and distribution, and facilitate engineering and product specification for design.

Hem-Fir is a species combination of Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and five of the True Firs: California Red Fir (Abies magnifica), Grand Fir (Abies grandis), Noble Fir (Abies procera), Pacific Silver Fir (Abies amabilis), and White Fir (Abies concolor). While Western Hemlock and the True Firs are sometimes marketed separately in products graded for appearance, these species share similar design values making products graded for structural applications interchangeable.

The Hem-Fir species combination is one of the most important in the Western region, second only to the Douglas Fir-Larch species group in terms of abundance, production volumes, strength, and versatility in end use.