Spruce trees belong to the pine family and the genus Picea, making them a key feature in many landscapes. Characterized by their short, rounded evergreen needles with spiked tips, these trees boast a conical shape and dense foliage that adds beauty to any environment. Their resilience and adaptability
make them a popular choice for both ornamental and practical uses.
They are native to the Northern Hemisphere's boreal snow forests and temperate regions.
Whether in a forest or your landscape, spruce trees bring a touch of nature's elegance.
Preferred soil conditions:
Moist, well drained organic soil types. Small amount of clay acceptable.
No standing water for lengths of time.
Mulch after planting and water as necessary for the first year and periods of drought thereafter.
Colorado Blue Spruce or "Blue Spruce"
(Picea pungens)
The Colorado Spruce, also known as the Blue Spruce, is native to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It's known for its distinctive silver-blue variations. Did you know that the blue is actually a natural wax coating on its needles? It's called epicuticular wax. Think of the natural, blueish waxy covering of a plum because it's the same thing! It's nature's protection against the elements. The accumulation of wax is genetically controlled, meaning that some varieties of "Blue Spruce" are more blue than others. Likewise, some tree's wax remains on the tree longer than others. That's why some hold their color all winter long and into the next season. Some do not.
So...no, not all Blue Spruce are the same! The Colorado Blue Spruce comes in many colors, shapes and sizes too!
Colorado Blue Spruce
(Picea pungens var. glauca)
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Moderate
Approximate mature size: 60' H x 20' W
Size available: 5 foot and higher field grown, balled and burlapped.
Price: Starting at $25/ft
***Please Note: Picea pungens var. glauca in this form are grown from seed only. Some will be more blue than others and some will hold their color longer than others. For the bluest varieties look below!
All B&B trees are dug in the spring and fall when dormancy, weather conditions and field conditions allow. Pre-ordering is encouraged but not always necessary. Check with us for availability!
Just like many species, hybrids and unique variations can emerge naturally, whether from chance seedlings or genetic mutations known as "sports." These remarkable buds are often grafted onto a donor rootstock tree, leading to the stunning array of varieties we see today. You will find many variations! Colorful, weeping, dwarf...the list is huge!
Dive in to discover some of the variations within this species below!
'Sester Dwarf'® Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Sester Dwarf'
With stunning blue needles and a very slow growth rate, the Picea pungens 'Sester Dwarf' ® is an outstanding compliment to your garden. It's virtually maintenance free, requiring little to no pruning. A true dwarf of the species, it will grow to be only 6 feet tall by 4 feet wide!
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Slow
Approximate mature size: 6' H x 4' W
Size available:
7 gallon, 30" - 36" Price: $325.00
'Blue Diamond' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Blue Diamond'
Introducing Picea pungens 'Blue Diamond', a stunning dwarf selection of the Colorado Spruce. This variety is celebrated for its striking blue needles adorned with a silver overlay, promising to retain its vibrant color throughout the seasons. Typically reaching a height of around 25 feet and a width of 12 feet, it’s the perfect choice for those seeking a beautiful spruce that won't dominate your garden or landscape. Add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space with this charming addition!
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Slow/Moderate
Approximate mature size: 25' H x 12' W
Size available:
#7 , 3' - 4' Price: $275.00
'Baby Blue' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Baby Blue'
Discover the charm of the 'Baby Blue' Colorado Blue Spruce! A semi-dwarf tree that captures the stunning bright blue color of its larger counterpart while remaining compact, reaching a maximum height of just under 25 feet and width of 12 feet. Perfect for smaller landscapes, it retains its vibrant blue all year long, making it a delightful addition to any garden or yard!
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Slow/Moderate
Approximate mature size: 25' H x 12' W
Size available:
5 gallon, 18" - 24" Price: $85.00
'Baby Blue Eyes' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes'
Slower growing than the parent Colorado Spruce this semi-dwarf is a stunner! Picea pungens 'Baby Blue Eyes' features dense, eye-catching silvery blue needles that maintain their vibrant color exceptionally well. With its broad pyramidal form, this tree remains solid and full showcasing no see-through areas even in adulthood. Expect it to reach a height of 25 feet and a width of 15 feet, making it perfect choice for any garden.
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Moderate
Approximate mature size: 25' H x 15' W
Size available:
#5, 15" - 18" Price: $110.00
#7, 3' - 4' Price: $275.00
'The Blues' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'The Blues'
Experience the elegance of this weeping beauty, Picea pungens 'The Blues'! Adorned with bright silver-blue needles and branches that cascade gracefully to the ground. Perfect for adding a touch of uniqueness to your garden, this stunning companion will surely capture attention and spark conversations. Stake it to your desired height and watch it transform your outdoor space!
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Slow/Moderate
Approximate mature size: Staked to desired height.
Size available:
10 gallon grow bag, 6' - 7': Price: $240.00
'Iseli Foxtail' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Iseli Foxtail'
Are you in search of a truly unique variety of Picea pungens? Look no further than 'Iseli Foxtail'! With its stunning silvery-blue needles that resemble a fox's tail, this tree is sure to catch the eye. Each new branch is plump at the base and tapering at the tip, creating the delightful appearance of miniature bushy fox tails adorning the tree.
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Moderate
Approximate mature size: 50' H x 20' W
Size available: 10 gallon grow bag, 4' - 5': Price: $180.00
'Fastiagata' Colorado Blue Spruce
Picea pungens 'Fastiagata'
Picea pungens 'Fastigiata', is a popular selection known for its tight, columnar habit and stunning blue color. This variety is perfect for smaller spaces, as it grows to a more manageable height and width compared to the species. Often used as a focal point, 'Fastigiata' adds a striking touch to any landscape. With age, its branches may spread, but regular pruning can help maintain its unique shape and size!
Zones: 2 - 7
Growth Rate: Moderate
Approximate mature size: 30' H x 10' W
Size available:
5 gallon grow bag, 12" - 18": Price: $80.00
7' - 8' BB: Price: $320.00
8' - 9' BB: Price: $360.00
Please note: We sometimes use computer generated images of the trees to depict the best presentation for our customers. Although we strive for the best representation we encourage you to search the internet for other pictures as well. Better yet...come see them in person! Afterall, pictures don't always do ANYONE justice...right?? ;)