Picea obovata - Common Bonsai,Conifer - Siberian Spruce Page

Introducing the Picea obovata Siberian Spruce: a majestic evergreen tree that stands tall at 15-35 meters with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. Its conical crown is adorned with drooping branchlets, creating a picturesque silhouette.

The shoots of this spruce species boast a warm orange-brown color, covered in a variable scattering of dense pubescence. Its needle-like leaves are rhombic in cross-section and measure 1-2 cm long. Shiny green to grayish-green in color, they feature inconspicuous stomatal lines. Notably, the leaves subtending a bud are distinctively angled out, setting them apart from other spruces. A rare characteristic shared only by two or three other spruces.

Witness the beauty of the Siberian Spruce's cones, which are cylindric-conic in shape, measuring 5-10 cm in length and 1.5-2 cm in breadth. These cones start off green or purple but mature into a glossy brown, 4-6 months after pollination. The scales of these cones are characterized by their stiff, smoothly rounded appearance.

Native to northern Europe and Asia, this spruce species holds significant importance in Russia. The timber derived from the Siberian Spruce is widely used in general construction and paper making, thanks to its exceptional quality.

But the uses of this remarkable tree don't stop there. Its leaves find purpose in the brewing of spruce beer, adding a unique flavor to this traditional beverage. Meanwhile, the cone scales of the Siberian Spruce serve as a crucial source of food for the caterpillars of the tortrix moth, known as Cydia illutana. The intricate web of connections and dependencies within nature comes to life when exploring the Siberian Spruce's role in the ecosystem.

Interestingly, the Siberian Spruce also displays genetic similarity to the Norway Spruce (Picea abies). Some experts consider them closely related subspecies of P. abies due to their extensive hybridization where their habitats overlap in northeastern Europe. Trees within this broad area, spanning from extreme northeast Norway to the Ural Mountains, are classified as the hybrid Picea × fennica, displaying slight differences in their cones. These cones bear less smoothly rounded scales, often featuring triangular-pointed tips.

At [Company Name], we invite you to discover the enchantment of the Siberian Spruce. Its resplendent presence, impressive wood quality, and fascinating ecological interactions make it an essential addition to any landscape. Whether you seek to enhance your garden's aesthetics or contribute to the preservation of biodiversity, the Siberian Spruce is the perfect choice. Embrace the elegance of nature and experience the wonders of this exceptional tree.