Picea abies Pusch (Norway Spruce)

Picea abies ‘Pusch’ (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, spreading, evergreen shrub of globose habit when young, becoming more upright over time. It is prized for its abundant red cones which adorn most of the branch tips in spring, creating a terrific display in the garden. As the season progresses, the cones mature to pale brown and persist until late winter.

Picea abies 'Pusch' (Norway Spruce) is a dwarf, spreading, evergreen shrub of globose habit when young, becoming more upright over time. It is prized for its abundant red cones which adorn most of the branch tips in spring, creating a terrific display in the garden. As the season progresses, the cones mature to pale brown and persist until late winter. The lateral, layered branches are densely covered with dark green needles. A slow grower, 1-2 in. per year (2-5 cm), this is a great addition to any garden settings, including small gardens.

  • 2008 Conifer of the Year – American Conifer Society .
  • Grows up to 2 ft. tall (60 cm) and 3 ft. wide (90 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 or rock garden.
  • 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 2'
– 3'
(60cm
– 90cm)
Spacing 36″ (90cm)
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, Small Gardens
Garden Styles Gravel and Rock Garden, Traditional Garden