Engelmann Spruce vs Sitka Spruce - TreeTime.ca

Engelmann Spruce vs Sitka Spruce

Picea engelmannii

Picea sitchensis

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Engelmann Spruce
Sitka Spruce

Engelmann Spruce is a tall, cold resistant tree native to western North America. This high-altitude mountain tree has characteristic loose, scaly bark ranging in colour from reddish-brown to grey.

Birds such as grouse, woodpeckers, nuthatches and thrushes will call this tree home. As Engelmann Spruce can exceed heights of 100 feet, consumers should note it is too large for a normal city lot.

Sitka Spruce is a native conifer and the largest spruce species in the world. It grows quickly and reaches impressive heights, often reaching more than 50 metres (164 feet) in suitable conditions. It has strong, durable wood that has long been recognised for its commercial value.

It contributes to soil stability and plays an important role in coastal ecosystems. It offers cover and nesting sites for birds and small animals, and its seeds provide food for wildlife such as songbirds and small mammals.

Sitka Spruce plays a role in reforestation and ecological restoration projects in Coastal BC. The Wright Brothers used Sitka Spruce wood to build the frames of their first flying machines.

Engelmann Spruce Quick Facts

Sitka Spruce Quick Facts

Zone: 2a
Zone: 5a
Height: 30 m (98 ft)
Height: 61 m (200 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Light: any
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Growth form: upright, conical
Spreading: seeds - low, layering - low
Suckering: none


Foliage: blue-green needles
Bark: thin, flaky, gray-brown to gray-purple
Cones: Reddish-brown, papery cones
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: AB, BC
Native to: BC
Other Names: coast spruce, tideland spruce