Contents
Description
Picea Abies, commonly known as the Norway spruce, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the Pinaceae family. It is native to Europe and parts of Asia, and is widely cultivated for ornamental and commercial purposes in North America. The tree can grow up to 60 meters tall and has a conical shape. Its bark is brownish-grey in color and has deep grooves. The needles are dark green, glossy, and grow up to 3 centimeters long. The cones are cylindrical in shape, 10-20 centimeters long, and hang downward from the branches.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Picea |
Appearance
Picea Abies has a conical shape and can grow up to 60 meters tall. Its bark is brownish-grey in color and has deep grooves. The needles are dark green, glossy, and grow up to 3 centimeters long. The cones are cylindrical in shape, 10-20 centimeters long, and hang downward from the branches. The tree has a shallow root system and can be easily uprooted by strong winds.
Care Guide
Picea Abies requires well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. It is a hardy tree and can tolerate cold temperatures, making it suitable for hardiness zones 2-7. The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Fertilization should be done in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to maintain the tree’s shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Picea Abies is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, adelgids, and aphids. These pests can cause discoloration and defoliation of the tree’s needles. The tree is also prone to fungal diseases, such as root rot and needle cast, which can cause yellowing and dropping of the needles. Regular monitoring and prompt treatment can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Picea Abies is native to Europe and parts of Asia, where it grows in mountainous regions and forests. The tree prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures. It is widely cultivated for ornamental and commercial purposes in North America, where it is used for landscaping and as a source of timber.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for Picea Abies?
A: Picea Abies is suitable for hardiness zones 2-7.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Picea Abies?
A: Picea Abies is susceptible to spider mites, adelgids, aphids, root rot, and needle cast.
Q: When is the best time to prune Picea Abies?
A: Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring to maintain the tree’s shape.
Q: What is the average height of Picea Abies?
A: Picea Abies can grow up to 60 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Picea glauca (White spruce)
- Picea mariana (Black spruce)
- Picea pungens (Colorado blue spruce)
- Picea sitchensis (Sitka spruce)
References
- “Picea abies.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b605
- “Norway Spruce.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed September 9, 2021. https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=843
- “Picea abies.” The Gymnosperm Database. Accessed September 9, 2021. http://www.conifers.org/pi/Picea_abies.php
