Trees

Picea glauca

White spruce

White spruce foliage in Acadia National Park. Photo: Billy Hathorn / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0. photograph, not current inventory.

White spruce is a cold-hardy evergreen that becomes a tall, relatively narrow tree. Stiff green to blue-green needles and small slender cones give it a restrained woodland appearance. Unlike its many dwarf cultivars, the straight species needs room to develop substantial height, making it more appropriate for large plantings than a small foundation bed.

At a glance

Sun: Sun; tolerates some shade
Size: Height: To about 80 ft · Width: 10–20 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zone 2 minimum

Sizes & prices

#1$24.99
#2$39.99
#7$149.99

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

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Landscape use & tree form

Form: Dense pyramidal
Growth rate: Moderate
Use: Specimen; hedge; privacy screen

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Browsing can occur in winter, despite the species being listed as resistant.
Drought: The species is relatively drought tolerant for a spruce after establishment; maintain moisture for dwarf forms and young plants.
Wet soil: Good drainage required.

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

Pollinators & wildlife

Wildlife food: Foliage for grouse and browsing mammals
Evidence: Species-level guidance; cultivar habitat value varies.

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native across northern North America

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Evergreen; green to blue-green

Growing & care

Site: Best in cool climates; heat and humidity increase stress.
Pruning: Preserve the leader and natural branching. If shortening is necessary, cut younger portions of branches in early spring; avoid bare old wood.
Soil: Moderately moist, well-drained soil; provide air circulation.
Issues: Spider mites are a particular concern during dry weather; needle rust, canker and root rot can occur.

Sources & photo credits

Oregon State University

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

www.udel.edu

Photo: Billy Hathorn · CC BY-SA 3.0

Image notes: White spruce foliage in Acadia National Park. Photo: Billy Hathorn / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0. Wikimedia 960 px thumbnail; no other edits. photograph, not current inventory.

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