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Description
Picea Omorika Aurea, also known as the Golden Serbian Spruce, is a stunning and unique evergreen tree that can add beauty and resilience to any landscape. This tree is native to Serbia and Bosnia, and it is known for its golden-yellow needles that give it a warm and inviting appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Coniferophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Picea |
Appearance
The Picea Omorika Aurea is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 50 feet tall and 25 feet wide. It has a narrow and conical shape, with branches that are evenly spaced and slightly drooping. The tree’s golden-yellow needles are its most distinctive feature, and they can range in color from bright yellow to a more subdued green-yellow. The needles are short and dense, and they give the tree a soft and feathery appearance. The tree’s bark is thin and scaly, and it is a light gray color.
Care Guide
The Picea Omorika Aurea is a hardy and resilient tree that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. However, it does have some specific care needs to ensure that it stays healthy and grows to its full potential.
- Water: This tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water it deeply once a week, especially during hot and dry periods.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: This tree prefers slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The Picea Omorika Aurea prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Picea Omorika Aurea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. To prevent these pests, keep the tree well-watered and fertilized, and prune away any dead or damaged branches. The tree can also be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly drained soil.
Habitat
The Picea Omorika Aurea is native to the mountainous regions of Serbia and Bosnia. It prefers cool and moist climates, and it grows best in areas with mild summers and cold winters. This tree is often used as an ornamental tree in landscaping and can be found in parks, gardens, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Picea Omorika Aurea tolerate drought conditions?
A: While this tree is fairly drought-tolerant, it prefers moist soil and may suffer if it goes too long without water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Picea Omorika Aurea?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time of year to prune this tree?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How long does it take for the Picea Omorika Aurea to reach maturity?
A: This tree can take up to 20 years to reach its full size and maturity.
Related Plants
- Picea abies (Norway spruce)
- Picea glauca (White spruce)
- Picea mariana (Black spruce)
- Picea pungens (Blue spruce)
References
- Dirr, Michael A. “Manual of Woody Landscape Plants: Their Identification, Ornamental Characteristics, Culture, Propagation and Uses.” Stipes Pub Llc, 2009.
- “Picea omorika Aurea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276476.
- “Picea omorika Aurea.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/1505/.
