A broad, dense, pyramidal evergreen, valuable as a specimen, for massing, as a windbreak, or screen. The needles are green, with white undersides; the branches are ascending; and the cones between 1 to 2 1/2 inches long and pale brown. 30 to 60 feet tall and 20 or more feet wide; many varieties are available, with a variety of growth habits.
One of the most tolerant spruces, adapting to heat, wind, cold, and periodic drought. Prefers well drained, loamy soils but will tolerate poorer, drier soils if provided regular irrigation. Resents shearing or hedging, so plant it where it has the room to grow. Does not tolerate soggy soils. Moderate growth rate.