Picea abies

Picea abies - European Spruce

General:
European Spruce (Picea abies) is common in northern, central and eastern Europe. Naturally, it would only grow where extreme conditions do not allow the red beech to dominate. So, for example, on peaty, sandy or alpine soils. However, if it does not have to assert itself against other tree species, it also grows very well in other locations. That is why today it is often found in forests used for forestry. Here the european spruce grows up to 50 meters high and develops a straight continuous trunk with a conical crown. On extreme sites, it naturally grows correspondingly weaker and, especially in alpine areas, is shaped by the weather and is sometimes bizarrely shaped. The european spruce is evergreen and has 1 - 2 cm short needles.

Care as a bonsai:
Impressive bonsais can be created from red spruces. The foliage is very fine, the branches are very flexible and the plant is overall robust. However, a prerequisite is consistent pruning or pinching of the new shoots and the desire and skill to wire. The plants like to be in partial shade, but will tolerate full sun if properly acclimated. Spruces are frost hardy, but should not be in the winter sun.