The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: tigertail spruce

Family: Pinaceae (pine family)

Synonym: Picea polita

Distribution: Japan

IUCN Red list: Vulnerable

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: This uncommon evergreen becomes a large specimen to 50' tall. Older trees have shoots that curve in the shape of a tiger's tail, providing the common name. Lustrous dark green needles on this tree are very rigid and sharp! Plant in full sun in moist, well-drained soil.