Description
The Norway spruce, Picea abies, is a coniferous tree that is native to northern and central Europe, including Norway, Sweden, and Finland. It has a pyramidal shape with a dense crown of branches and needle-like leaves that are glossy dark green in color. The tree produces small, brown cones that hang down from the branches.
The Norway spruce can grow to be quite large, reaching heights of up to 150 feet and a trunk diameter of up to 6 feet. It grows relatively quickly, adding several feet of height each year. It can be differentiated from similar trees by its pyramidal shape and its dark green, glossy needles.
The Norway spruce prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. In order to cultivate it successfully, a grower may need to provide regular watering and fertilization. The tree is winter hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures.
The Norway spruce is not edible. However, it does have some utility for wildlife, as its cones provide food for birds and small mammals. The tree is also valued for its timber, which is used for construction, paper production, and other purposes. It is also often used as a Christmas tree.
