Field Guide

The White Spruce (Picea glauca) is a large evergreen tree native to North America. It is known for its cone shape and bluish-green foliage.

Size and Shape:

• White Spruces are large evergreen trees that can reach heights of 40 to 60 feet or even taller when fully mature.

• They have a conical or spire-like shape, with a straight trunk and branches that are generally horizontal or slightly drooping.

Needles:

• The needles of White Spruce are short and stiff, measuring around 0.5 to 1 inch in length.

• They are arranged singly on the branches, densely covering the twigs.

• The needles have a bluish-green to grayish-green color, giving the tree a distinct appearance.

Cones:

• White Spruces produce small to medium-sized cones that are typically cylindrical or slightly egg-shaped.

• The cones are initially green or purplish and gradually mature to a light brown color.

• They are usually located near the upper parts of the branches and point upward.

Bark:

• The bark of young White Spruces is usually thin, smooth, and grayish-brown in color.

• As the tree ages, the bark becomes thicker and develops shallow furrows and scaly ridges.

Origin:

• White Spruces are native to North America and can be found in various regions across the continent, particularly in northern and western parts.

• They are commonly used as ornamental trees in landscapes and can also be found in forests and natural habitats.