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Care of the plant Picea abies or European spruce.

Care of the tree Picea abies or European spruce

The genus Picea, family Pinaceae, comprises 35 species of trees native to temperate and cold regions of Asia, Europe and North America. Some species are: Picea abies, Picea pungens, Picea mariana, Picea orientalis, Picea rubens, Picea koyamae.

Common names: European spruce, Norway spruce. This species is native to Europe.

They are large, slow-growing trees (conifers) that reach 60 meters (196.8 feet) in height. The evergreen leaves are thread-shaped and glossy dark green. The shoots that are born in spring are yellowish green. The fruits are hanging oval cones measuring 16 cm (6.29") in length; first they are green and then brown.

They are used as isolated specimens, to form screens and in small groups. In northern European countries it's used as a Christmas tree. The wood is used to make paper pulp for newspapers and building materials.

Picea abies can grow in full sun or semi-shade exposures. They resist frost well.

They need deep, moist soils; they do not withstand drought.

Water regularly so that the substrate is always slightly damp but never flood.

They do not need pruning or fertilizers.

They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases.

They are propagated by seeds or by cuttings.

Images of the tree Picea abies or European spruce

Picea abies
Picea abies