Leaves are stomatiferous above and below. Foliage is constricted above the base and is shed leaving a relatively smooth twig that is quite different than the spruce twig. Cone scales are shed individually with the seed, leaving a stick protruding above the branch. An excellent tree for ornamental plantings, these firs develop into stately and graceful lawn specimens. It is hardy in all sections of the state and quite free from insects and diseases.
Trees are very site-demanding and intolerant of excess moisture.
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.