 Slide 27 Picea (Spruce) A genus of about forty-five species of dense, usually pyramidal evergreen. Spruces are well adapted for urban conditions and will tolerate a wide range of soil types. They tolerate heavy winds and make excellent screens. Picea omorika and Picea pungens are more tolerant of dry conditions than other species. Spruces perform well in the heavy clay soils of the Midwest and offer a range of foliage colors from light green to dark green to bright blue. Picea abies An upright, narrowly pyramidal tree attaining heights of 70 to 80 feet. Branches become pendulous with age. Cones are the longest of the spruces - 6 to 8 inches long. A very formal tree with dark green, year-round foliage. Selections have the same cultural needs as the species. Hardy to zone 3, they require moist, well-drained soil in a relatively cold climate. If used as a hedge, plants should be pruned when young.
|