The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Rubra Spicata Norway spruce

Family: Pinaceae (pine family)

Distribution: Species native to Europe

Hardiness: USDA Zone 4

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: This is an unusual evergreen conifer. For about two weeks in the spring the new growth is deep red gradually changing to red-brown then green (a very unexpected color for a spruce). The form is columnar and growth rate is intermediate (6-12" per year, 6-15' in 10 years). An excellent specimen, or use as an accent plant or in a rock garden.