Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

The Norway spruce is a very large pyramidal tree that usually grows up to 60 feet high in the U.S. However, in Europe there are trees that have reached 200 feet tall. This evergreen has dark green needles and long, light brown cones that hang off the branches like ornaments. Norway spruce trees are most often used as windbreaks or hedges in large-scale landscapes. This tree attracts birds, moths, and small mammals.

Family: Pinaceae (Pine)

Characteristics: The half-inch-long needles are dark green and maintain their color throughout the winter. The hanging, seed bearing, 4-inch to 9-inch-long cones are a purple-violet or green color when young, maturing to a light brown. Bark is gray-brown and has flakey scales. This tree has a pyramidal shape. It grows 40-60 feet high and 25-30 feet wide, though may grow up to 200 feet in its native habitat.

Foliage: Evergreen (foliage present year round)

Geographic Origin: Northern and central Europe (non-native)

Cultivation Notes: Requires low maintenance. Does best in full sun. Prefers acidic, evenly moist, and well drained soils. This is a fast growing tree and requires plenty of room to grow.

Number on Campus: 19

Sources: Dirr, Morton Arboretum, Missouri Botanical Garden