Species oriental spruce
compact, pyramidal shape, small tree with dark-green foliage

oriental spruce

Picea orientalis 'Compacta'

Oriental Spruce (Picea orientalis 'Compacta') is a tall, narrow conifer that is well suited to smaller gardens. It has short, stiff, bright green needlwes and a narrow, pyramidal form, and will reach heights of up to 25 feet if left to grow. It is hardy and able to withstand temperatures as low as -25°F. It's also relatively fire and pest resistant, and looks lovely as a privacy hedge or windscreen. Oriental Spruce doesn't need pruning to maintain shape, but kept trimmed will have a soft, feathery appearance. This evergreen tree is a great choice for physical barriers and visual interest in one's landscape.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun, Part sun/part shade

Soil:

Well-drained

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Care Level:

Medium

watering

For optimal growth, Oriental spruce should be watered once every 10 days or so during the summer season. Be sure to provide enough water for the plant to soak up, about 1 inch of water every watering. In the winter months, the frequency of watering can be reduced to once a month or even less depending on the container size. Be sure to check the container soil first to see if any additional water is needed before you begin the process of watering.

sunlight

The plant should receive at least 4-6 hours of sunlight each day. If possible, give the plant additional sunshine by placing it in an open spot or near a south or east window. If the plant receives too much direct sunlight, it may need to be in partial shade in the afternoon.

pruning

Pruning of an Oriental Spruce is a necessity to maintain its shape and health. It is best to prune the plant in either late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Begin pruning when the Oriental Spruce is young, and cut back no more than one to two thirds of the length of the branch. Thinning out overly dense areas of growth can help to open up the branches and allow more light and airflow to reach individual branches. Regular maintenance with annual pruning will help sustain the desired shape of the Oriental Spruce.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Picea orientalis 'Compacta' typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map