Red Spruce
Picea rubens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Red Spruce is an evergreen conifer native to the northeastern United States and Appalachian Mountains. This slow-growing tree thrives in cool, moist conditions at higher elevations.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Red Spruce as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
60"–240" H × 20"–40" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CT, MA, MD, ME and 9 more states
Red spruce is a tall, narrow evergreen tree native to cooler forest regions. It forms a classic Christmas tree shape with dense, dark green needles and can reach impressive heights over time. This slow-growing conifer provides year-round structure and is well-adapted to cooler, moister conditions.
Growing Red Spruce
Grow Red Spruce in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 60 to 240 inches tall and spread 20 to 40 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Red Spruce is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 5 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Eventual large size requires adequate space planning
Wildlife value
Red spruce provides nesting sites and shelter for birds, while its seeds feed various wildlife including squirrels and birds. The dense evergreen foliage offers valuable winter cover for many species.
Common questions
- Where does Red Spruce naturally grow?
- Red Spruce is native to the northeastern United States and extends south along the Appalachian Mountains, found in states from Maine to North Carolina and west to Tennessee and West Virginia.
- What growing conditions does Red Spruce prefer?
- Red Spruce thrives in cool, moist conditions and prefers well-drained, acidic soils. It naturally occurs at higher elevations and can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
- How fast does Red Spruce grow?
- Red Spruce is a slow-growing tree that typically adds 6-12 inches per year under optimal conditions. Mature trees can reach 60-80 feet tall over many decades.
- When does Red Spruce produce cones?
- Red Spruce produces small reddish-purple cones in late spring to early summer, typically May through June. The cones mature in fall and release seeds before dropping.
- Is Red Spruce toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Red Spruce as toxic to livestock.
- Is Red Spruce HOA-friendly?
- Red Spruce is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Red 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