Picea abies (Norway Spruce)

Architectural, Picea abies (Norway Spruce) is a fast-growing, large pyramidal evergreen conifer with dense, slightly upturned primary branches and pendulous secondary branches. The foliage of spirally-arranged, dark green, glossy, needle-like leaves, 1 in. long (2.5 cm), covers the upper side of the branchlets. The cylindrical light brown cones, 6 in. long (15 cm), are pendulous. Norway spruce is one of the most important coniferous species in Europe both from an economic and ecological point of view. Much used as a Christmas tree, it is also widely used in landscaping, where it is valued for its ease of growing, rapid growth, and tolerance of a wide range of conditions. It is frequently used as a windbreak.

• Grows up to 40-60 ft. tall (12-18 m) and 25-30 ft. wide (7.5-9 m) at maturity.
• Performs best in full sun in acid or neutral, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Generally prefers cool climates and will struggle in hot and humid climate areas. Tolerant of air pollution.
• Perfect as a distinctive specimen plant, windbreak, or Christmas tree.
• Watch for adelgids, aphids and conifer red spider mite. Easy to grow and easy to care for. Deer resistant.
• No pruning is required.
• Propagate by seed or by 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.