Norway Spruce (Picea abies)
Description
Latin: Picea abies
Zones: 2-7
Other common names: European spruce
Mature Height/high: 125 ft. high/ 25-30 ft. spread. The Norway Spruce has fast growth rate when young, slows down with age, fairly dense when young, becoming a bit more open with age.
Soil / Climate: Very cold hardy. The Norway Spruce tolerates acidic soils well, best in well-drained, sandy soils, large trees transplant easily, prefers cooler climates, full sun.
Notes: It is used in forestry for timber and paper production, and as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens. It is also widely planted for use as a Christmas tree.
Wildlife: Winter shelter for wildlife. Squirrels will eat the buds. Spruce grouse eat the needles. The seed is eaten by a variety of woodpeckers, pheasant, and many other varieties of birds.