Species Colorado spruce
yellow-green foliage with brown-beige fruits on brown branches

Colorado spruce

Picea pungens 'Colonial Gold'

Colorado Spruce (Picea pungens 'Colonial Gold') is an evergreen native to the Rocky Mountains. It has an upright form and densely packed, glossy yellow-green needles. In the winter, the needles change to an orange-bronze color, adding seasonal interest to the landscape. This tree grows slowly to a height of 10-20 feet, and is an excellent choice for small spaces and transitioning zones, as it is tolerant to both sun and shade. With its lush, bright foliage, the Colorado Spruce is a stunning addition to any garden.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Tissue Culture

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

gold,yellow

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Moderate

watering

Colorado spruce should be watered once every 4-7 days, depending on soil moisture levels. Aim to water until the soil is damp but not soggy. A good amount is approximately 1.5-2 inches of water per week, depending on the season and sun exposure. During the summer growing season, and when your tree is exposed to direct sunlight, you may need to water more often.

sunlight

Colorado spruce, Picea pungens 'Colonial Gold', thrive in full sun. For optimum growth, this plant species should receive 4-7 hours of direct sunlight every day. The amount of daily sunlight will depend on the season and the local climate. During the peak growing season, summer months, it should receive around 6-7 hours of sunlight each day. In areas with extreme heat, providing afternoon shade is recommended to minimize heat stress. During the winter, the Colorado spruce may receive partial sun or shade. Depending on the intensity of the sun, the amount of direct sunlight can range from 1-3 hours.

pruning

Colorado spruce should be pruned once a year in late winter to early spring. Removing dead or damaged branches is important to prevent the spread of diseases. Also removing branches that are rubbing against each other will help maintain proper shape. Pruning 1-third of the longest branches is also recommended in order to maintain proper shape and size. It is best to avoid pruning new growth and to use small, sharp pruning shears for clean cuts.

Season

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

Picea pungens 'Colonial Gold' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Picea pungens 'Colonial Gold' typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map