Rocky Mountain seed sources are better adapted to Ohio conditions. It is a large tree, growing up to 100 feet, with distinct, spreading, pyramidal growth. Branches are spreading and whorled. Bark is smooth and thin on young trees, becoming thicker and more furrowed on older trees. Nordmann fir is sparsely planted in Ohio for specimen and ornamental purposes.
Trees are site-demanding and very intolerant of poor drainage.
Stomatic areas are usually on the lower leaf surface. Needles densely cover the stem, and are glossy, and dark green. Buds are not, or only slightly, resinous.