Swiss Stone Pine vs Dragon Spruce
Pinus cembra
Picea asperata
NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON
Swiss Stone Pine is a hardy, slow-growing evergreen. Narrowly pyramidal while young, this long-lived tree is adaptable to many soil types. Due to its shape and density, Swiss Stone Pine is a versatile shade or accent tree.
Although our pictures don't show it, this seldom seen tree is among the most attractive conifers we have seen and is likely why it is the most chosen tree used for memorials or dedications in public parks.
Swiss Stone Pine is also sought after for the large seeds it produces. They are often used as pine nuts are and are tasty in pesto.
Dragon spruce is a unique looking spruce, as it is more shaggy and irregular than most spruces. They have sharp, stiff needles that are directed forward on the branch and their colour ranges from grey/green to blue/green.
They will grow in nutrient poor soils and can tolerate stronger winds, making them a good choice for providing shelter.
This species has been declining due to deforestation and related human activity in western China, its native range. It has notable genetic diversity for a spruce with a number of unusual growth habit variants. Given the cultural significance of the dragon, this tree should not be underestimated for its beauty or usefulness.