Species Colorado spruce
short, needle-like, silver-green foliage with brown stems

Colorado spruce

Picea pungens 'Bacheri'

Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens 'Bacheri') is an evergreen tree with medium-green needles that typically grow up to 50-60 feet tall and 15-25 feet wide. It has a pyramidal shape with a graceful, spreading habit and bright blue to green foliage. 'Bacheri' is also known for its excellent wind resistance and ability to thrive in cold climates. Its blue coloring will brighten up any landscape and will add a dramatic flair. Colorado Spruce has excellent drought tolerance and prefers well-drained soil. It is an ideal choice for adding texture and color to yards, parks, and arboretums.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Colorado spruces need to be watered regularly to ensure optimal health. Generally, they will need to be watered deeply once a week during their active growing season; however, in periods of extreme heat or drought, they can require more frequent watering. In addition, it is important to make sure that the soil is kept evenly moist but not saturated. When watering, aim to moisten the entire root zone as deeply as possible.

sunlight

The Colorado spruce prefers full sun, which should be at least 6-8 hours of sunlight each day. If grown in a shaded area, the tree won't reach full size or have a full vibrant color. The best time for the Colorado spruce to get its full dose of sunlight is during the mid-morning and mid-afternoon, when the sun is not directly overhead. When the location has extreme heat or cold temperatures, the Colorado spruce may benefit from slightly less sunlight or additional protection.

pruning

Colorado spruce trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. Prune lightly, removing only dead and damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning which can cause dieback and overall stress on the tree. In general, try to leave the mature shape of the tree intact and only remove small or diseased branches. Pruning can be done annually, or every other year.

Season

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

Colorado spruce typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Colorado spruce typically start flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map