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 |