Douglas fir (Abies Grandis)

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The giant fir, also known as the Mallow, Hare Mallow, Cheese, Chlebice, Homole, God's Cakes, is an important tree native to North America. These trees, which can reach heights of up to 80 metres, are characterised by their pyramidal shape, dense, reddish branches and tiny cones that appear at flowering time. Its evergreen forces with scaly cones and a distinctive citrus-like scent are the hallmarks of this fir.

The wood of the giant fir is extremely valued for its strength, durability and high quality, which are applied in various areas of industry. It is used in oak barrel wines to enhance the flavour and aroma. In the construction industry, it is mainly used as a construction material and for furniture. Its lightness and flexibility make it a popular material for the manufacture of skis and snoboards. In addition, the wood of the fir tree is used to make musical instruments because of its ability to transmit sounds. It is also a popular tree species for horticultural purposes. Chrousts are traditionally used as an alternative to hops in beer production and the young tops are eaten, usually soaked in alcohol or sugar, as a delicacy. In folk medicine, it is used to prepare herbal teas, salves, baths and oils to treat various diseases and ailments.