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.
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Planting Site and Native Range
Planting Site
Naturalization, Parks, Residential
Management Notes
Management Notes
None of significance
Tree Characteristics
Growth Rate
Slow (less than 30cm per year)
Width
5 - 8m
Height
9 - 17m
Soil Quantity
0 - 10 m
Leaves
Evergreen
Insects and Diseases
Insects and Diseases
No serious or common issues in the urban environment. Some infrequent issues for shade trees include canker, spider mites and aphids. In forests and in much rarer instances for shade trees, spruce budworm can be destructive.
Tree Tolerances
Soil Salt Tolerance
Unknown
Salt Spray Tolerance
Unknown
Flooding Tolerance
High
Drought Tolerance
Moderate
pH Tolerance
Tolerant of acid to slightly alkaline soil (pH 5.0 to 7.5)
Shade Tolerance
Full Sun Part Shade
Plant Hardiness Zone
Zone 2 (a/b) | Zone 3 (a/b) | Zone 4 (a/b) | Zone 5 (a/b) | Zone 6 (a/b)