Mountain Spruce
Picea engelmannii
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Mountain Spruce (Picea engelmannii) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Mountain Spruce as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–180" H × 120"–360" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
Find rebates in your areaBrowse plants for this ecoregion
Mountain spruce is a majestic evergreen conifer that develops into a tall, pyramidal tree with blue-green needles. This slow-growing native provides year-round structure and color to landscapes. It eventually becomes quite large, making it best suited for spacious properties where it can reach its full potential.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mountain Spruce is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm smaller properties
- Slow growth means long-term commitment needed
Wildlife value
Provides important habitat and nesting sites for birds, while seeds feed various wildlife species. The dense branching structure offers excellent shelter for small mammals and birds during harsh winter conditions.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mountain Spruce need?
- Mountain Spruce grows best in part sun conditions.
- Where is Mountain Spruce native?
- Mountain Spruce (Picea engelmannii) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Mountain Spruce toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Mountain Spruce as toxic to livestock.
- Is Mountain Spruce HOA-friendly?
- Mountain Spruce is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Mountain Spruce? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz