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Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees

By David Beaulieu, About.com

Picture of dwarf Alberta spruce.

Picture of dwarf Alberta spruce.

David Beaulieu

Plant Taxonomy of Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Plant taxonomy classifies dwarf Alberta spruce trees as Picea glauca. 'Conica' is the cultivar I'll be considering.

Plant Type for Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees are classified as evergreen conifers.

USDA Plant Hardiness Zones for Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees can be grown in zones 3-8.

Characteristics of Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees may eventually reach 12' in height, but only over a long period of time (growing just 2"-4" per year). They have a classic "Christmas tree" shape. The green needles have a tight, densely-packed growth habit that gives dwarf Alberta spruce trees a "fuzzy" look.

Plant Care for Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees require very little care, although they are, unfortunately, sometimes the victims of spider-mite attacks. Their slow growth rate means they hardly ever have to be pruned.

Sun and Soil Requirements for Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees prefer full sun and a well-drained, acidic soil.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees in Landscape Design:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees are used as specimens in landscape design.

More on Dwarf Alberta Spruce Trees:

Dwarf Alberta spruce trees are one of the most recognizable specimens in North American landscaping. You'll often see them used in pairs to flank the entryway to a house for a formal look that strives for balance. Because dwarf Alberta spruce trees will remain relatively small for a number of years, people sometimes treat them (at least initially) as container plants.

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