Picea abies Little Gem (Norway Spruce)

Deservedly desirable, Picea abies ‘Little Gem’ (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub of dense habit, forming a flattened globe or bun. Its short branches are covered with finely textured, soft, tiny needles, emerging bright green in spring and turning dark green over time. A slow grower, 1 in. per year (2.5 cm), this popular miniature Norway Spruce is a wonderful addition to rock gardens and containers.

Deservedly desirable, Picea abies 'Little Gem' (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub of dense habit, forming a flattened globe or bun. Its short branches are covered with finely textured, soft, tiny needles, emerging bright green in spring and turning dark green over time. A slow grower, 1 in. per year (2.5 cm), this popular miniature Norway Spruce is a wonderful addition to rock gardens and containers.

  • Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 12 in. tall (30 cm) and 18 in. wide (45 cm) after 10 years.
  • Performs best in full sun in slightly acidic, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Adaptable to a wide variety of soil conditions, it tolerates dry sites and wind. Generally prefers cool climates and will struggle in hot and humid climate areas. Tolerant of air pollution.
  • Perfect as a distinctive specimen plant in the sunny border, city gardens, cottage gardens, rock gardens or containers.
  • Watch for adelgids, aphids and conifer red spider mite. Easy to grow and easy to care for.
  • No pruning required.
  • Propagate by grafting or semi-hardwood cuttings.
  • Picea abies species is native to Europe.
  • Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
  • Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.

Requirements

Hardiness 3
– 8

Heat Zones 1
– 8

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 14, 15, 16, 17, A2, A3
Plant Type Conifers, Shrubs
Plant Family Picea – Spruces
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 10"
– 1'
(25cm
– 30cm)
Spread 1'
– 2'
(30cm
– 60cm)
Spacing 18″
– 24″
(45cm
– 60cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Deer, Rabbit
Attracts Birds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers, Small Gardens
Garden Styles City and Courtyard, Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden