Dwarf Alberta Spruce vs Sitka Spruce - TreeTime.ca

Dwarf Alberta Spruce vs Sitka Spruce

Picea sitchensis

Picea glauca conica

CUSTOM GROW

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

Sitka Spruce
Dwarf Alberta Spruce

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.

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.

Sitka Spruce Quick Facts

Dwarf Alberta Spruce Quick Facts

Zone: 5a
Zone: 3a
Height: 61 m (200 ft)
Height: 3 m (10 ft)
Spread: 11 m (35 ft)
Spread: 0.9 m (3 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: fast
Growth rate: slow
Life span: long
Life span: long
Growth form: upright, conical
Spreading: seeds - low, layering - low
Suckering: none


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


Native to: BC
Other Names: coast spruce, tideland spruce
Other Names: dwarf white spruce