February Tree of the Month-Norway spruce

The noble Norway spruce, Picea abies, is one of the largest evergreens grown in the St. Louis area. With a height of 60+ feet and 35’ spread, Norways are not trees to casually plant without some serious thought for the future. I could post a fun photo series of Norway spruces versus house where the house is usually the loser–until the chainsaw gets involved. They are so adorable in their little pots at the nursery; cute little innocents just waiting to eat your walkway, house, or foundation planting bed in a few years.

On the other hand, the natural, pyramidal shape is breathtaking, especially on a snowy day. One mature tree can be an entire ecosystem in itself. It loves full sun and hates wet feet, so plant it high with plenty of room to spread.

Given the mature size, quite a few cultivars such as P. abies ‘Cupressina’ or P. abies ‘Fastigiata Compacta’ are available that grow narrower or shorter while still maintaining the classic pyramidal shape and beauty of the straight species.

The amount of dwarf cultivars available is outstanding, making it a favorite among dwarf conifer geeks.

What I love about this plant-it’s absolutely stunning when fully grown and allowed to branch down to the ground creating a haven for wildlife. It’s evergreen with a dark, mysterious air about it that makes a great deer-resistant privacy screen. Super low maintenance if planted in the right place. Showy cones. Trillions of dwarf cultivars are available for containers, rock gardens, and, yes, even the foundation planting area next to your front door.

What’s not so great? The sheer size a mature specimen can obtain is both a pro and a con. If you want the straight species, GIVE IT SPACE. Keep in mind clearance issues when placing it, such as walkways, streets, power lines, and your house or garage. If you can avoid trimming up the lower branches, please do.

Words and photos by Jo Batzer

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