Norway Spruce

(Picea abies)

Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Picea abies, commonly known as Norway Spruce, is an evergreen tree native to the boreal forests and mountain regions across Europe. It is a fast-growing species that can reach heights of 115-180 feet (35-55 meters) with a conical shape that becomes more cylindrical with age. The branches typically hang downwards, and it produces the largest cones of any spruce, measuring 9–17 cm long, which are notable for their size and are an important food source for wildlife. The tree’s needles are dark green, adding to its ornamental value. Norway Spruce is a keystone species in its native habitat, forming extensive forests and providing habitat for numerous organisms.

Norway Spruce is valued for its rapid growth, adaptability to a range of soil types, and its use as a windbreak or privacy screen. It is also prized for its wood, which is used in construction and paper production. The species is widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens and is the traditional Christmas tree in many cultures. It requires full sun to light shade, medium water, and well-drained soil. Popular garden cultivars include ’Pendula’ with weeping branches and ’Nidiformis,’ a bird’s nest-like dwarf form. Potential problems include susceptibility to pests like spruce bark beetles and diseases such as needle cast. It is potentially invasive in some regions, such as parts of the United States, where it can outcompete native vegetation.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-100 feet
  • Width: 25-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Boreal forests and mountain regions across Europe

Other Names

Common Names: Common Spruce , White Spruce , European Spruce , Smrk Ztepilý , Rød-Gran , Gemeine Fichte , Rotfichte , Gewöhnliche Fichte , Rot-Fichte , Abeto Rojo

Scientific Names: Picea abies , Pinus orientalis , Abies pumila , Abies abies , Picea abies subsp. abies , Picea abies var. inversa , Abies excelsa , Pinus vulgaris , Picea abies f. procumbens , Pinus cinerea

GBIF Accepted Name: Picea abies (L.) H.Karst.