Species Norway spruce
brown, upright stems with shiny, green, short, needle-like leaves

Norway spruce

Picea abies 'Little Gem'

Also Known As - Norwegian Spruce
Norway spruce (Picea abies 'Little Gem' ) is a particularly beautiful member of the evergreen family. This dwarf conifer has a naturally conical form, with small, dense needles that have a pretty blue-green colour. It is an ideal shrub for your garden as it is suitable for all temperatures, does not require pruning and is very low maintenance. The Norway spruce 'Little Gem' is a great addition to any landscape, adding a hint of colour while also creating an interesting visual interest. It can make an eye-catching addition to borders and can be grown in containers, making it a perfect choice for small spaces.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Norway spruce should be watered about once a week on average. To ensure that your Little Gem is properly hydrated, check the soil 1-2 centimeters down. If the soil feels dry, it’s time to water. During warmer months, when the plant is actively growing, you may need to water more often. When it comes to overwatering, err on the side of caution; too much water can lead to root rot and other problems. Finally, be sure to water your spruce in the morning and avoid splashing the leaves, as this can damage them.

sunlight

Norway spruce (Picea abies 'Little Gem') grows best in areas that receive full sun for most of the day, or at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. It is highly resistant to both heat and cold, as well as strong winds. In the summer, it should be placed in a spot that gets plenty of sun throughout the day, while in the winter, it should be placed in a spot that gets ample sunlight for most of the day. This plant should also be kept protected from any direct wind or drafts.

pruning

Norway spruce (Picea abies 'Little Gem') should be pruned twice a year. Prune it in the late winter/early spring when the plant is still dormant and again in the late summer, just after new growth has stopped. Make sure to remove any broken or dead branches and to thin out the branches that criss cross or rub against 1 another. Avoid removing more than 1-third of the branch tips. Start with the lowest branches first and thicken existing branches or remove them entirely for a bushier appearance. Keep in mind that over-pruning can reduce the potential for abundant foliage and can even kill the plant.

Hardiness Map