Plant Details

• Botanical NamePicea Blue Teardrop with Cones! (dwarf blue spruce selection; typically related to Picea pungens)
• Common NamePicea Blue Teardrop
• Size & GrowthDwarf, slow-growing conifer maturing about 4–6 ft tall and 2–3 ft wide in 10–12 years; dense teardrop/pyramidal habit.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 2–7; exceptionally cold hardy with good wind tolerance once established.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen needles; vibrant steel-blue to silvery-blue, dense and prickly, retaining color year-round.
• Bloom TimeConifer (no true flowers); pollen and seed cones in spring, ornamental cones maturing late summer to fall.
• Growth RateSlow; typically 3–6 inches (7–15 cm) per year under good conditions.
• Light RequirementsFull sun (6+ hours). In hotter climates, very light afternoon shade can reduce needle scorch.
• Attracts PollinatorsNo—wind-pollinated conifer. Provides shelter and nesting opportunities for birds; cones may feed wildlife.
• Indoor FriendlyNot suitable as a houseplant; requires full sun and outdoor seasonal cues. Best outdoors year-round.
• Container FriendlyYes—excellent in large, well-drained containers for many years; ensure winter protection for pots in cold climates.
• Deer ResistantYes—spruces are generally avoided by deer due to sharp needles and resinous taste, though no plant is completely deer-proof.
• Pet WarningNon-toxic, but sharp needles/cones can cause mouth or paw irritation if chewed; ingestion may cause mild GI upset.
• FragrantLight resinous aroma when foliage is rubbed or warmed by sun; not considered strongly fragrant in the landscape.
• Cut FlowerNot used as cut flowers; small branches and cones are attractive for winter arrangements and crafts.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Dwarf conifers (Pinus mugo, Juniperus), heaths and heathers (Calluna, Erica), sedums, thyme, ornamental grasses, nepeta, and salvia.

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsPlant in early spring or fall. Dig a hole 2–3× wider than the root ball and the same depth. Loosen circling roots and set so the root flare is level with the soil surface. Backfill with native soil; water to settle and mulch 2–3 inches, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist the first 1–2 years. Water deeply but infrequently; allow the top inch to dry between waterings. Once established, tolerates short dry spells but prefers consistent moisture in summer heat.
• Soil TypeWell-drained loam or sandy loam; slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0). Avoid waterlogged or heavy clay; amend with compost and coarse grit where drainage is poor.
• HumidityPrefers average to low humidity with good air circulation. Avoid persistently wet foliage; water at the base in the morning.
• Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning required. In late winter or very early spring, remove dead or damaged wood. For light shaping, shorten soft new growth by up to one-third as it elongates. Do not cut back into old, bare wood—spruce does not reliably reshoot there.
• Winter CareExtremely hardy. In exposed sites, water deeply before ground freeze and apply 2–3 inches of mulch. Young plants may benefit from a seasonal burlap windbreak to reduce winter desiccation. For containers, move to a sheltered spot and insulate the pot.
• Planting DepthSet the crown/root flare level with surrounding soil—never deeper. The top of the root ball should be even with or slightly above grade on heavy soils to ensure drainage.
• FertilizationLight feeder. In early spring, apply a slow-release, balanced conifer fertilizer at label rates, or top-dress with compost. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds after midsummer to prevent tender late growth.
• Special CareEnsure excellent drainage and full sun for best blue color. Monitor for spruce spider mite and aphids; rinse foliage with a firm water spray if needed. Check for girdling roots at planting. In hot, reflective sites, provide slight afternoon shade to limit needle scorch.