Trees

Picea abies 'Gold Drift'

Gold Drift Norway spruce

Gold Drift Norway spruce spring growth detail. Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0

Gold Drift is a weeping Norway spruce whose shape can be guided by training. Fresh spring growth starts lime green, with sun-exposed needles becoming yellow through late spring and summer. Left unstaked, branches can spread over the ground or cascade across a wall; trained upward, the same cultivar makes a dramatic vertical accent.

At a glance

Sun: Sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 10–12 ft at 10 years when trained upright (grower estimate); unstaked plants trail along the ground. · Width: 4–6 ft at 10 years in an upright-trained grower example; width depends on training and continues to increase.
Water: Moderately moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zone 3 minimum

Sizes & prices

#2$94.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Weeping; shape depends on training
Growth rate: 12–15 inches/year (grower estimate)
Use: Groundcover; cascading over walls; trained specimen

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Species is listed as resistant; young plants can still need protection.
Drought: Dislikes hot, dry summers.
Wet soil: Intolerant of wet feet; good drainage is important.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Birds: Attracted to this plant
Evidence: Species-level guidance; cultivar habitat value varies.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; lime-green spring growth, yellow in sun, quieter winter color
Cones: The parent species bears hanging cones about 4–6 in long; cultivar cone production varies.

Growing & care

Pruning: Train and stake if an upright form is wanted. Preserve the leader and natural branching. If shortening is necessary, cut younger portions of branches in early spring; avoid bare old wood.
Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil; sandy soil is suitable.
Issues: Hot, dry sites increase stress. Watch for mites, aphids, bagworms, needle cast and canker.

Sources & photo credits

American Conifer Society

Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web without enlargement. · CC BY-SA 2.0

Image notes: Gold Drift Norway spruce spring growth detail. Photo: F. D. Richards / Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0; resized for web without enlargement.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.