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Description
Picea Glauca Var. Albertiana Conica, commonly known as Dwarf Alberta Spruce, is a slow-growing, evergreen coniferous tree with a conical shape. It is native to North America and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. This tree species is prized for its compact size, dense foliage, and unique shape, which makes it an excellent choice for small gardens or as a patio plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Picea |
Appearance
The Dwarf Alberta Spruce has a conical shape and a slow growth rate, reaching a height of about 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) and a spread of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) at maturity. The tree has a dense, compact growth habit with short, stiff needles that are bluish-green in color. The needles are arranged in a spiral pattern on the branches, giving the tree an attractive texture. The cones are small, cylindrical, and light brown in color, measuring about 2 inches (5 centimeters) in length.
Care Guide
To ensure the healthy growth of the Dwarf Alberta Spruce, it is important to follow a proper care guide. Here are some essential care tips:Water: This tree species prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.Soil: The Dwarf Alberta Spruce prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Ensure the soil is well-draining and add organic matter to improve soil health.Sunlight: This tree species prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure the tree receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common issues that may occur:Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the tree and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of the needles. Control aphids with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Mites: Mites are tiny pests that can cause discoloration of the needles and webbing on the branches. Control mites with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can cause dieback of the branches and needles. Prune affected branches and avoid wounding the tree.
Habitat
The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is native to North America and is commonly found in coniferous forests and mountainous regions. This tree species prefers cool, moist climates and is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dwarf Alberta Spruce?
A: Fertilize the tree with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall.Q: What is the height and spread of the Dwarf Alberta Spruce?
A: The Dwarf Alberta Spruce has a slow growth rate, reaching a height of about 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 meters) and a spread of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) at maturity.Q: What is the preferred soil pH for the Dwarf Alberta Spruce?
A: The Dwarf Alberta Spruce prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Dwarf Alberta Spruce?
A: The Dwarf Alberta Spruce is hardy in USDA zones 2-7.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Dwarf Alberta Spruce:- Picea Glauca ‘Pendula’- Picea Pungens ‘Globosa’- Picea Abies ‘Pusch’- Picea Omorika ‘Karel’- Picea Mariana ‘Nana’
References
– “Picea glauca ‘Conica’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a462.- “Dwarf Alberta Spruce.” The Spruce. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/dwarf-alberta-spruce-growing-profile-3269206.- “Picea glauca var. albertiana ‘Conica’.” Plant Finder. Accessed September 14, 2021. https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/87/dwarf-alberta-spruce/.
