White Spruce
Evergreen conifer reaching 15-25 m tall with a pyramidal form. Features short, bluish-green needles and pendulous cones. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. Tolerates cold temperatures and wind. Provides year-round cover and food for wildlife. Suitable for windbreaks, privacy screens, and as a native Christmas tree. Native to northern North America.
Plant Details
Bloom Colour: N/A (Conifer)
Bloom Time: N/A (Conifer)
Sun Requirements: Sun to Part-Shade
Moisture: Moist-Drained
Phenology: Evergreen foliage year-round. New growth emerges late May-early June, lighter green than older needles. Cones develop summer, maturing and releasing seeds in fall. Male pollen cones appear in spring.
Wildlife Value: Critical winter cover for birds and mammals; seeds eaten by crossbills and other finches; important nesting tree for many birds
Habit Over Time: Develops a dense, pyramidal form with horizontal branches arranged in regular tiers. Lower branches persist unless shaded out, creating a full profile to the ground. The tight branching pattern creates deep shade beneath, making underplanting challenging. While it doesn't spread vegetatively, it provides strong year-round structure and wildlife habitat.
Height: Tall (40-60 feet)