Norway spruce is found in much of the United States, but it’s native to Europe. This tree is most often used as a landscape tree. Its dense branching pattern and tolerance of soil variations has also made it a popular tree for windbreaks.
Is the fastest growing of the spruces.
Features strong, graceful branches with dark green needles
Works well for windbreaks
Transplants easily
The Norway Spruce Grows in zones 3 - 7
Shape: Pyramidal
Growth Speed: Fast
Mature Height: 40' - 60'
Mature Spread: 25' - 30'
Sun Preference: Full Sun
Soil Preference: Acidic, Clay, Drought, Loamy, Moist, Sandy, Well Drained
Wildlife Value: support a wide variety of wildlife; as winter cover for deer and small game including grouse, hare and woodcock. Song birds and fur bearers also frequent these forest types. Norway spruce also makes a good roosting tree for hawks and owls.
History: The Norway spruce hails from Europe. And while this species does grow in Norway, the name is a bit of a misnomer. This tree grew in Eurasia, the Black Forest and other parts of the continent long before making its way to Norway around 500 B.C.
As people emigrated, they often brought trees with them from the Old Country to plant as ornamentals on new homesteads.
Photo Credit: Smithsonian Institute; USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database