Picea abies European - Common Bonsai,Conifer,Medicinal Herbs - Norway Spruce Page

Picea abies, commonly known as Norway Spruce, is a majestic and fast-growing evergreen tree that can reach heights of 35-55 meters (115-180 ft) with a trunk diameter of 1-1.5 meters. This coniferous tree is characterized by its orange-brown, hairless shoots, and dark green needle-like leaves. The leaves, which are quadrangular in cross-section, measure 12-24 mm in length and have inconspicuous stomatal lines.

Norway Spruce is a popular choice for general landscaping purposes due to its fast growth when young. As the tree matures, it takes on a tall, broad columnar shape that narrows toward the top, with a strong central leader. The new needles of the tree are bright green and darken over time. This species thrives in full sun and is commonly used as a Christmas tree in Europe.

The Norway Spruce is native to central and northern Europe, with its range extending from Norway in the northwest to Poland in the east. It is also found in the mountainous regions of central Europe, the Alps, the Carpathians, and the Balkans. This adaptable tree can withstand cold regions, making it a common sight in many European landscapes.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Norway Spruce is an important source of timber. It is widely used in Europe for construction purposes and is known for its durability and strength. The tree produces 4-6 inch cones that are green or purple in color when young.

Medicinally, the buds, leaves, and resin of the Norway Spruce have been used for their antibiotic, antiseptic, balsamic, expectorant, and sedative properties. The resin obtained from the trunk of the tree is often used externally in plasters and other preparations for its healing and antiseptic properties. The sap or gum of the tree has also been used as a poultice to alleviate boil and abscess pain.

While the Norway Spruce has a moderate lifespan, with an average maximum age of around 200 years, it is not as long-lived as some other tree species. However, it makes up for this with its rapid early growth, with young trees capable of growing over 1 meter per year. Growth slows down as the tree ages, but it can still sustain an average growth of 60 cm for at least the first 60 years.

In terms of distribution, the Norway Spruce has its northern limit just north of 70°N in Norway and extends eastward to the Ural Mountains in Russia. It is known to hybridize extensively with the Siberian Spruce, resulting in the Picea x fennica hybrid. The Norway Spruce also exhibits variation in different parts of its range, with populations in southeast Europe having longer cones with more pointed scales.

Overall, the Norway Spruce is a versatile and visually striking tree that offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. Whether used for its landscape appeal, timber production, or medicinal properties, it is a valuable addition to any environment.