Alberta Spruce ‘Conica’ – Dwarf White Spruce, Compact Holiday Evergreen

A Living Mini Evergreen for Holidays and Beyond

The Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca ‘Conica’) is a dwarf conifer cherished for its dense pyramidal form, soft evergreen needles, and exceptionally slow growth. Adding just 2–4 inches of height per year, this naturally compact spruce maintains its tidy shape with little to no pruning, making it one of the easiest conifers to enjoy indoors or outdoors. Adaptable to a wide range of conditions, the Alberta Spruce provides year-round beauty and a sense of calm, whether displayed on a desk, accenting an entryway, or bringing festive charm during the holidays.

Plant Profile

• Botanical Name: Picea glauca ‘Conica’
• Common Name(s): Alberta Spruce, Dwarf White Spruce
• Family: Pinaceae
• Native Range: Northern United States & Canada

Alberta Spruce Care Guide

• Care Level: Easy – ideal for beginners and collectors alike
• Light: Thrives in full sun; tolerates partial shade
• Water: Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged; allow the top inch to dry slightly before watering again
• Humidity: Naturally tolerant of low household humidity
• Temperature: Prefers 50–80°F; hardy outdoors in USDA Zones 2–6
• Pruning: Rarely needed; lightly trim only to remove brown or damaged growth
• Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release evergreen fertilizer in spring and summer for optimal growth
• Propagation: By semi-hardwood cuttings
• Growth Habit: Upright, dense, naturally pyramidal
• Common Pests: Resistant to most pests and diseases when properly cared for
• Toxicity: Non-toxic to pets and humans

Why We Love the Alberta Spruce

Often referred to as a “living Christmas tree”, the Alberta Spruce is a festive favorite thanks to its symmetrical, cone-shaped form. Perfectly sized for tabletops, desktops, or patios, it can be decorated with miniature ornaments during the holiday season and enjoyed year-round as a refined evergreen accent. Its combination of durability, compact growth, and low-maintenance requirements makes it a timeless choice for both novice plant lovers and seasoned gardeners.