Serbian spruce (Picea omorika)

Species info:

Leaves: Flat, short needles ½–1 inch long; dark green above, with two broad white stomatal bands beneath that give a silvery underside

Leaflets: N/A (needles)

Leaf Surface: Lustrous dark green on top; silvery-white beneath; soft and flattened, unlike most spruces

Bark: Thin, gray-brown; becomes slightly scaly with age

Flowers: Inconspicuous; male and female cones form on the same tree

Botanical: Picea omorika

Family: Pinaceae

Mature Height: 50–60 feet

Canopy Spread: Up to 25 feet

Foliage Type: Evergreen

Tree Shape: Slender and pyramidal; thin, arching branches that curve upward at the tips

Cones/Fruit: Egg-shaped, pendulous cones 2½ inches long; blue-black when young, maturing to cinnamon brown

Fall Color: Evergreen (no seasonal color change)

Water Use: Moderate; prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil; avoid drought and wind exposure

Hardiness: Zones 4–7

Soil Preference: Tolerates both acidic and alkaline soils; best growth in moist, well-drained conditions

Wildlife Value: Provides cover and nesting for birds; seeds consumed by small mammals

Insects and Diseases: Generally hardy; possible issues with aphids, mites, scale, and budworm; White Pine Weevil can damage the central leader

Notable Traits: Elegant, narrow conifer suitable for smaller landscapes; silvery underside gives distinctive visual movement in the wind; attractive alternative to Colorado or Norway spruce

Recommendations for planting:

Information sources:

• Penn State, College of Agriculture Science, Entomology website (ento.psu.edu/extension)

• Arbor Day Foundation tree guide website (arborday.org/treeguide)

• How to Grow a Serbian Spruce Tree website (eHow.com)