Norway Spruce
Picea abies
ConiferAbout Norway Spruce
Norway Spruce is a large, fast-growing European conifer widely planted in North America for windbreaks, screens, and as a landscape specimen. It is recognized by its graceful, weeping branchlets and large cones. It is one of the most commonly used species for Christmas trees and is the traditional tree displayed at Rockefeller Center.
Quick Facts
How to Identify Norway Spruce
- Short, dark green, four-sided needles on drooping branchlets
- The largest cones of any spruce, 4-7 inches long, hanging downward
- Reddish-brown, scaly bark
- Distinctive weeping secondary branches hanging from main limbs
- Broadly pyramidal form becoming more open with age
Care Guide
- Water regularly during dry periods, especially when young
- Allow plenty of room; the spread can reach 25-30 feet
- Avoid shearing; let the natural form develop
- Lower branches may die in heavy shade; this is normal
- Watch for spider mites in hot, dry conditions
Known Issues (4)
Bagworm
MODERATEA moth whose larvae construct distinctive spindle-shaped bags from silk and foliage fragments. They feed on over 100 species of trees and shrubs, with conifers being most vulnerable since they cannot regrow lost foliage as readily.
Affecting 28 regions
Rhizosphaera Needlecast
HIGHA common fungal disease of spruce trees, especially Colorado blue spruce, throughout the Midwest and Northeast. The fungus infects current-year needles through stomata, causing them to turn purple-brown and drop prematurely. Inner and lower branches are affected first because humidity is higher there, and the disease progresses upward and outward over successive years. Severely affected trees may retain only the current year's needles at branch tips.
Affecting 25 regions
Stigmina/SNEED Needlecast
HIGHA fungal disease of spruce very similar in appearance to Rhizosphaera needlecast but caused by a different fungus. Often occurs alongside Rhizosphaera. It has become increasingly recognized as a major cause of spruce needle loss, particularly on Colorado blue spruce. Diagnosis requires microscopic examination to distinguish from Rhizosphaera.
Affecting 20 regions
Cytospora Canker
HIGHA common fungal disease of spruce and other conifers that causes branch dieback, typically starting from the lowest branches and progressing upward. Colorado blue spruce and Norway spruce are especially susceptible. The fungus enters through wounds or stressed tissue. White resin bleeding on bark is a hallmark sign. Stressed trees are most vulnerable.
Affecting 25 regions