Month: August 2024

More durable, adaptable and dense than the popular ‘Compressa,’ this improved selection sports the same compact, bluish green foliage and upright habit. It differs, though, in its broader pyramidal shape and its better tolerance to wind, cold and reflected sun. Try this reliable, vertical accent that is well suited for containers and a range of styles, from elegant to casual. Mature size: 3’H x 1.5’W Zone 4

Tufts of tiny green needles cover the many short shoots of this dense, tight bun. Originally a witch’s broom on ‘Nidiformis’ and more ball-like than its parent, Picea abies ‘Little Gem’ was discovered in 1958 and has been an extremely popular plant ever since. Its tough constitution and restrained growth assure good performance in a variety of garden situations where it resembles a lush, green pincushion. Mature size: 1’H x 2’W Zone 3

Pinus densiflora ‘Globosa’ provides gardens with superior year-round beauty. Its many upright branches create a dense, structural form, like an egg on its end. The needles, which are shorter and darker green than those of the Tanyosho types, stand up well to both cold and drought. Attractive bark with age. Mature Size: 6’H x 6’W Zone 4

Fresh green needles and a compact habit make the slow-growing Picea abies ‘Tompa’ a great choice for smaller landscapes and rock gardens. Its wide, conical shape resembles the well-known Alberta Spruce for which it is a superior alternative. Mature size: 3’H x 2’W Zone 3

Pinus sylvestris ‘Hillside Creeper’ is a classy creeper that spreads out and forms a flat mesa of layered branches that are covered with thick, green needles. The vigorous, hardy pine, lighter green in winter, makes an excellent ground-covering option for banks or walls or tucked in and around boulders. Found as a seedling by Layne Ziegenfus of Hillside Gardens, Lehighton, Pennsylvania. Mature size: 2’H x 10’W

Two-tone green and silver needles extend from the bundles in twists and turns, giving an overall silvery appearance. With an upright and slender form, this tidy selection will thrive in full sun and is highly adaptable and durable for many landscapes. Mature size: 20’H x 10’W

This pioneering pine species is noted for tolerance to weather extremes. Although adaptable to harsh dry conditions it is at its best in the landscape setting grown in moist well‑drained soil. With light green needles and a hint of silvery blue streaking through the needles, the uniform growth and compact shape make this an easy care garden tree. Mature size: 15’H x 10’W

At home in a sunny spot with moderately moist well-drained soil, Picea glauca ‘Yukon Blue’ will delight year-round with its short blue-gray needles contrasted against tawny stems. The short needles expose the abundant dark brown buds. Perfect for cold areas where a slow growing tree with a broad upright habit is needed. Mature size: 12’H x 8’W

Juniperus chinensis ‘Trautman’ is a hardy alternative to the temperate Italian Cypress. This narrow, coarse textured, bluish gray-green spire has incredible potential throughout the gardening world. As a single specimen it will make a majestic statement as it towers above other garden plants while maintaining a small footprint. Planted in a row, ‘Trautman’ will serve as a screen of unusual beauty because of its unique color and texture. Will thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Selected by the late Herbert Trautman, a highly respected Wisconsin nurseryman. Mature size: 15’H x 4’W

Boldly textured, medium length needles make the sturdy, upright, multi-stemmed Pinus mugo ‘Big Tuna’ a favorite for areas in the landscape with a little more room. The slow-growing trees become taller than wide and quite bushy. Very hardy with a unique, dense habit, ‘Big Tuna’s resinous buds turn showy during cold winter months and stand out distinctly against dark green foliage. Mature size: 10’H x 6’W