Dwarf Alberta Spruce vs Dragon Spruce
Picea glauca conica
Picea asperata
Dwarf Alberta Spruce is a small tree with very dense foliage. It is an attractive specimen in landscape designs and small yards. This plant naturally grows into the classic conical shape, but responds well to shearing and pruning.
Dwarf Alberta Spruce is hardy and disease resistant. However, its thick foliage can collect mildew. Consider planting this tree in an open space where the wind can dry out its needles.
You can use this cultivar as a substitute for cedar or juniper.
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.