Engelmann Spruce

(Picea engelmannii)

Engelmann Spruce (Picea engelmannii)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Picea engelmannii, commonly known as Engelmann Spruce, is an evergreen tree native to the mountainous regions of western North America, including the Rocky Mountains and the Cascades. Engelmann Spruce typically inhabits subalpine and montane areas, often forming pure stands or mixing with other conifers. It can grow at altitudes ranging from 900 to 3,600 meters (3,000–11,800 feet). This species reaches a height of 25–40 meters (82–131 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches). The bark is thin, scaly, and reddish-brown, flaking off in small circular plates. The crown is narrow and conical in young trees, becoming more cylindrical in mature specimens. The tree produces small purple cones approximately 1 cm long that release yellow pollen in the spring, which can be quite showy when backlit by sunlight.

Engelmann Spruce is valued for its adaptability to various soil types and cold tolerance, making it suitable for high-altitude and northern landscapes. It is used for reforestation projects, as a windbreak, and in large-scale landscaping. The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and requires well-drained soils with consistent moisture. It is relatively low-maintenance once established but can be susceptible to spruce beetle infestations and fungal diseases such as root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 60-80 feet
  • Width: 10-30 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

Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Subalpine and montane areas, often forming pure stands or mixing with other conifers

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Spruce, Columbian Spruce, Engelmann’s Spruce, Silver Spruce, White Spruce, Épicéa D’Engelmann, Épinette D’Engelmann, Picea Di Engelmann, Engeruman-SupurŪSu

Scientific Names: , Picea engelmannii, Picea engelmannii f. engelmannii, Picea engelmannii f. glauca, Picea engelmannii var. mexicana, Abies engelmannii, Abies engelmannii var. glauca, Picea engelmannii f. argentea, Picea engelmannii f. microphylla, Picea engelmannii f. pendula

GBIF Accepted Name: Picea engelmannii Parry ex Engelm.