Any tree of the genus Abies, of the pine family, characterized by erect cones, by the absence of resin canals in the wood but with many in the bark, and by flattened needlelike leaves which lack definite stalks. The leaves usually have two white lines on the underside and leave a circular scar when they fall. The native fir of the northeastern United States and adjacent Canada is A. balsamea, which attains a height of 75 ft (23 m) and has resinous buds. Its principal uses are for paper pulp, lumber, boxes, and crates, and as a source of the liquid resin called Canada balsam. In the eastern United States the fir is commonly used as a Christmas tree. It does not do well as an ornamental tree in areas where the summers are hot.