Norway Spruce Genus & Species

Spruce Classification

• The Norway spruce is classified as a member of the spruce genus (Picea spp.). Spruce trees have stiff needles with four roughly equal sides that end in a point. Unlike firs and pines, the base of each spruce needle begins with a woody brown projection that grows out of the tree's stems. Spruce species produce their seeds in long, narrow cones with thin, papery scales that allow the cone to bend and flex. As spruce trees reach their mature height, their bark develops a flaky texture with a gray color.

Identifying Norway Spruce

• Norway spruce has several identifying characteristics that you can use to separate it from other species in the spruce genus. The dark green needles of this species grow to roughly 1 inch in length with a tendency to angle toward the tip of the stem. When the branches of the tree reach maturity, they begin to droop downward from the trunk while the growing tips of the branches turn and grow upwards. The smaller branches growing from the main branches of the tree have a drooping habit that allows the needle-bearing stems to hang down around the tree.

About Norway Spruce

• The Norway spruce is a native of central and northern Europe that is often used in landscapes and windbreaks. It has a tall but narrow growth habit that reaches an average height of 80 to 100 feet with roughly symmetrical foliage that spreads 25 to 40 feet in diameter. The lower branches of the Norway spruce grow close to the ground and often require pruning when planted near paths, driveways or roads. In mature specimens the lower branches of the tree can grow to over a foot in diameter.

Growing Norway Spruce

• The Norway spruce is a versatile species adapted to grow in most types of soil. The Norway spruce has a dense root system that grows close to the surface. These roots crowd out grass and other plants, preventing them from growing beneath the foliage of the tree. Norway spruce trees planted in areas that are heavily shaded or flood regularly tend to grow poorly. This tree has a slow growth rate compared with other large trees with a similar growth habit.