White Spruce

(Picea glauca)

White Spruce (Picea glauca)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Picea glauca, commonly known as White Spruce, is an evergreen tree native to boreal forests and northern temperate regions, extending across the Northern USA and Southern Canada. It is adapted to a wide range of soil types, from moist riverbanks to dry upland sites. White Spruce typically grows to 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 ft) tall, with exceptional specimens reaching up to 40 m (130 ft) in height and a trunk diameter of up to 1 m (3 ft 3 in). The bark is thin and scaly, peeling off in small, circular plates. The crown of young trees is narrow-conical, becoming more cylindrical with age. The needles are short, stiff, and four-sided, contributing to a dense, textured appearance. This species is particularly noted for its hardiness and ability to withstand cold climates.

White Spruce is valued for its uniform shape and is often used for windbreaks, privacy screens, and as a Christmas tree. It is also planted for reforestation and urban greening due to its tolerance of urban pollution. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is adaptable to various soil conditions, including clay, loam, or sandy soils, with a preference for well-drained sites. While it requires medium amounts of water, it can also tolerate some drought once established. Gardeners should be aware of potential issues such as spruce beetle infestations and needle cast diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 60-80 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

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

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Erosion Control, Fragrant, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Boreal forests and northern temperate regions

Other Names

Common Names: Western White Spruce , Black Hills Spruce , Porsild Spruce , Alberta White Spruce , American White Spruce , Canadian Spruce , Cat Spruce , Skunk Spruce , Cat Spruce , Pasture Spruce

Scientific Names: Picea glauca , Picea glauca var. conica , Picea glauca var. pendula , Picea glauca f. caerulea , Abies alba var. caerulea , Abies caerulea , Abies canadensis var. aurea , Picea acutissima , Picea alba var. pendula , Picea caerulea

GBIF Accepted Name: Picea glauca (Moench) Voss