Picea mariana, or black spruce, is native to North America, primarily found in Canada and extending into the northern parts of the United States, including Alaska, the Great Lakes region, and the upper Northeast and excels in wet landscapes. Its shallow root system and slow growth make it ideal for partial shade to full sun, though it can be vulnerable to wind throw. It prefers wet organic soils, but can tolerate a range of soil types including clays, loams, sand, and coarse till. Black spruce is valuable for wildlife, providing a nesting site for birds and food for small mammals like red squirrels. Its cones open with fire, aiding in seed dispersal. This tree is an excellent addition to naturalized areas in northern areas with cold winters and wet ground.