Abies cephalonica, commonly known as the Greek fir or Cephalonian fir, is a coniferous evergreen tree native to the mountains of Greece. The Kefalonian fir grow primarily in the highest altitudes of Kefalonia Island (on the Mount Ainos) from which its botanical name derives.
This remarkable tree is noted for its slightly darker colours when comparing to other pines, and the forests Kefalonian firs play a key role in Kefalonia’s forest ecosystems, especially on the southern heights.
Size of Kefalonian fir
Kefalonian fir (Abies cephalonica, Cephalonian fir) is a large tree that can reach heights of 25–35 meters (82–115 feet), with some exceptional specimens reaching up to 40 meters (131 feet) in the forests of Ainos. It has a conical shape when young, which becomes more columnar with age, while its branches spread widely, giving it a distinctly pyramidal silhouette. The crown of the tree is dense and often appears layered due to the horizontal arrangement of branches.
Where to find Kefalonian fir in Mount Ainos
Abies cephalonica is well adapted to the Mediterranean climate, thriving in the mountainous regions of Kefalonia at altitudes ranging primarily from approx. 800 to 1,600 meters. This is the altitude, where you can meet primarily with this trees when visiting Ainos mountain. If you climb up to the highest peak of the Ainos, you will see next to the hiking paths almost only these Kefalonian firs.
From the area of Lourdata, Vlachata, Pessada or Karavados, you can also see Kefalonian fir forests when you look up to Ainos. Kefalonian fir trees are situated on the highest places, which you see on the photos as a darker forests.

This kind of tree prefers well-drained, rocky soils and mostly it typically grows on north-facing slopes. While it tolerates moderate winter cold, the Kefalonian fir is quite sensitive to extreme frost and prolonged dry spells, making its mountain habitat ideal for balanced seasonal moisture.
Specialties of Kefalonian fir
The needles of the Cephalonian fir are sharp, stiff and glossy green, measuring 1.5–3 centimeters (0.6–1.2 inches) long. They have a distinctive dark green color on the top side, while the underside features two pale white bands, created by rows of stomata, which are specialized cells that regulate gas exchange and water retention. These needles are arranged spirally on the branches but twist at the base to lie in two flat, horizontal rows, giving the branch an almost feathery appearance.
The cones of Abies cephalonica are cylindrical and upright, measuring 10–20 cm (4–8 inches) in length. When young, the cones are a striking green to purple color, gradually maturing to a brownish, darker hue as they release seeds. Once mature, the cones disintegrate while still attached to the tree, releasing winged seeds that are dispersed by the wind. The upright position of the cones is characteristic of the Abies genus and distinguishes them from other types of conifers, like pines and spruces.
The bark of young trees is smooth and gray but becomes rough and cracked with age, taking on a more rugged appearance. Older trees develop a furrowed, scaly bark that provides protection from environmental stresses, including cold temperatures and drought.
Why Kefalonian fir (Abies cephalonica) is Important in Greece
If you walk through some pine forests in Greece, you will notice that Kefalonias firs are not grow exclusively only in Kefalonia, but in other places as well, such as in mountains of Pelopponese. You can see meet whith Abies cephalonica in many botanical gardens of Europe, and in gardening stores. This is the reason, that the name of Kefalonian fir is Greek fir in some countries! But if you recognize these trees, don’t forget, the largest forests of Kefalonian fir and the origin of this tree is in Kefalonia Island, Greece.

As a dominant tree species in high-altitude forests, Kefalonian fir helps maintain the biodiversity and soil stability of Ainos. The dense canopy of the Cephalonian fir provides habitat and shelter for numerous species of birds and mammals, such as the rare wildhorses of Kefalonia Island, the horses of Ainos!
The Cephalonian fir holds cultural significance also, because as the “fir of Kefalonia,” it has become a symbol of the island’s natural heritage. Local Kefalonian communities in the area of Ainos mountain often use this tree as emblematic of their landscape, and you can see it in the logo of Ainos National Park also.
Abies cephalonica, or the Cephalonian fir is a remarkable tree native to the mountainous regions of Greece. Known for its towering height, sharp green needles, and dense conical form, it is a keystone species in high-altitude forests, supporting a rich ecosystem and providing essential environmental services. If you visit Ainos Mountain in Kefalonia island, you will meet with these dark coloured pine forests, which belong to the specialties of the island.