Buds are not resinous. Stomatic areas are usually below. Slight stomatic areas often appear near the tip on the upper side of leaves of A. balsamea . A. Buds are not, or only slightly, resinous. Glossy, dark green needles densely cover the stem.
Buds are resinous.
Leaves of the middle rank spread outward and somewhat upward with a few stomatic lines near the apex. A medium size tree, the balsam fir is usually not over 75 feet in height and has a pyramidal form with spreading, whorled branches. Bark is smooth on young trees and branches. The bark is very resinous when punctured and buds are resinous as well. Foliage is soft and has a pleasant, evergreen odor.