Picea abies Witches Brood (Norway Spruce)
Picea abies ‘Witches’ Brood’ (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub forming a charming globe when young, becoming broadly conical over time. Reminiscent of ostrich feathers, its perfectly symmetrical branches are densely covered with finely textured, light green needles. A slow grower, 2 in. per year (5 cm), this Norway Spruce is perfect as a specimen, for foundation plantings or rock gardens.
Picea abies 'Witches’ Brood' (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, evergreen shrub forming a charming globe when young, becoming broadly conical over time. Reminiscent of ostrich feathers, its perfectly symmetrical branches are densely covered with finely textured, light green needles. A slow grower, 2 in. per year (5 cm), this Norway Spruce is perfect as a specimen, for foundation plantings or rock gardens.
- Grows up to 18-24 in. tall and wide (45-60 cm).
- 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.
- 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 | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spread | 1' – 2' (30cm – 60cm) |
| Spacing | 24″ (60cm) |
| Water Needs | Average |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Soil Type | Clay, Loam, Sand |
| Soil pH | Acid, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained |
| Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
| Tolerance | Deer, Rabbit |
| Attracts | Birds |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders |
| Garden Styles | Gravel and Rock Garden, Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden |