Members only
Unlock the Plant Library
Care guides for 220+ plants: light, water, soil, pets, seasonal calendars and troubleshooting. Enter the password from your welcome email to get in.
Plant Profiles / Dwarf Alberta spruce
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Dwarf Alberta spruce
Picea glauca 'Conica' · Dwarf white spruce
A perfect cone of soft, dense needles. A classic potted Christmas tree for cool climates.
Sun to part shadeLight
Keep moistWater
ModerateCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Afternoon shade in heat.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Even.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Mist in heat.
Temperature
-35–28°C (-31–82°F)
CoolWarm
Cool.
Growth
Very slow
SlowFast
1–2 m.
Soil
Acidic mix
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Light.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Safe.
About this plant
A dwarf mutation of white spruce from Canada. Dislikes heat; best in cool areas.
Best spots
Doorways, cool balconies and winter pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Picea glauca 'Conica' |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Origin | Canada |
| Plant type | Conifer |
| Mature size | 1–2 m |
| Growth rate | Very slow |
| Foliage | Soft needles |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Trim
Active growthTrim
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown patches | Mites. |
| Scorch | Heat. |
| Dry | Water. |
| Reversion | Cut green shoots. |
| Wind burn | Shelter. |
Common questions
Christmas tree?
Yes.
Heat?
Struggles.
Pots?
Ideal.
Pet safe?
Yes.




