Picea sitchensis, commonly known as Sitka Spruce, is a majestic coniferous tree native to the west coast of North America. This tree is renowned for its impressive height and straight, towering trunk, often reaching mature heights of 50 to 70 meters, with some exceptional specimens growing even taller. Its spread, typically around 6 to 12 meters, is relatively narrow compared to its height, giving it a distinctive, spire-like appearance.

One of the key features of Picea sitchensis is its needle-like leaves, which are stiff, sharp, and bluish-green. These needles are arranged spirally around the branches, providing a dense foliage that is both aesthetically pleasing and effective as a windbreak. The bark of the Sitka Spruce is thin and flaky, with a characteristic greyish-brown colour. The cones are cylindrical, about 6 to 10 centimeters long, and have thin, flexible scales that can help in identifying this species.

Sitka Spruce thrives in a variety of soil types but prefers moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It is particularly well-suited to coastal environments where it benefits from the cool, moist air. This tree has a preference for full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in its early stages of growth. Notably, Picea sitchensis is an important species for timber production due to its strong, lightweight wood, which is highly valued in the construction and paper industries. Additionally, this tree plays a crucial role in its native ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife species.

Tree Specs

• Common Name: Sitka spruce
• Botanical Name: PICEA sitchensis
• Mature Height: 50-70m
• Key Features: 
  
  • Year-round interest
  • Distinctive needles
  • Bark interest
  • Evergreen
  • Stately tree