Picea mariana Aureo-variegata

Variegated Black Spruce

Variegated Black Spruce (Picea mariana ‘Aureovariegata’) combines small blue-green needles with golden coloring on sunlit growth. The mixed tones emphasize its spreading branch layers and bring a bright accent to an evergreen planting.

The tree develops an upright, pyramidal form at a moderate pace. Its foliage is the principal ornamental feature, giving a conifer collection interest outside the flowering season. Position it where light can reach the branches and reveal the variegation.

Choose a cool site with a steady supply of moisture. Black spruce is poorly suited to sustained summer heat.

Ten-year size
• Width: About 3 ft at 10 years
• Height: About 6 ft at 10 years

Hardiness
• USDA Zones: 2–8; performs best with cool summers

Best Uses
• Specimen
• Accent Plant

Plant type

Conifer, Evergreen Tree

Height

25'

Width

7'

Hardiness zones

2–8

Sunlight

Full sun to part shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Does not flower

Flower color

None

Leaf color

Blue-green, Gold

Fall color

Blue-green, Gold

Soil

Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Pyramidal

Fruit

No

Fragrant

No

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

No

Drought tolerant

No

10-year height

6 ft

10-year width

3 ft