Norway Spruce (Picea abies)

An exceptionally cold hardy species with many cultivars!

• Hardiness Zone: 2 to 7
• Height: 40-60’
• Spread:  25-30’
• Exposure:  Full Sun
• Bloom Color: Insignificant Flowering. Seed Bearing Cones.

Why we Love it: 

There are over 150 cultivars of Norway Spruce; a variety of landscaping needs can be met by a member of this species! The straight species can be used for screening, hedges, or an effective windbreak (excellent for our frigid Wisconsin winters) in large landscapes. Dwarf cultivars can be planted along foundations or in rock gardens.

Know Before You Plant:

Choose a planting site in full sun with well-drained soil. The root system is shallow so applying mulch can be beneficial. The straight species is not recommended for small yards due to the large size at maturity.

Where It Thrives:

The Norway Spruce is native to Europe and is well-suited for Wisconsin landscapes. Waukesha County’s hardiness zone is 5 and the Norway Spruce is hardy to zone 2 (much colder!). This species also prefers cool summer climates, such as ours.

Fun Fact

The 2023 U.S. Capitol Christmas tree is a Norway Spruce from West Virginia! You can learn more about it from the Architect of the Capitol here.