Norway Spruce
Picea abies
Pinaceae
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0 (2025-05-28)
Description
Norway Spruce is a non-native evergreen widely planted in Buffalo for windbreaks and ornamental use. It's distinguished by its drooping branchlets and large cones. This fast-growing tree is the traditional Christmas tree in much of Europe.
Characteristics
Leaf Type
needle
Leaf Shape
single needles surrounding branch, 1/2-1 inch
Height
60-80 feet
Bark
reddish-brown, scaly bark
Fruit
large hanging cones 4-7 inches
Identification Tips
- • Branches droop gracefully (weeping habit)
- • Very large cones hang downward
- • Dark green needles all around twig
- • Pyramidal shape
- • Lower branches sweep the ground
Seasonal Changes
Spring
New growth light green at branch tips
Summer
Dense evergreen foliage
Fall
Large cones mature and hang from branches
Winter
Drooping branches shed snow effectively
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Soil Preference
moist, well-drained, acidic
Sun Requirements
full sun
Image Gallery
Leaves
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0
Winter
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0