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Delicate, green needles and short, slender branches give Larix decidua ‘Prag’ a soft, airy texture. Newer branches sweep gently upward and then spill down as they mature, giving ‘Prag’ a low, mounding form. Super cold hardy, this deciduous conifer is a great choice in some challenging garden conditions. Mature size: 6’H x 6’W Zone 2

‘Spring Sunshine’ is a new selection of white spruce from the Memorial University of Newfoundland; it was found growing along a highway near the school. Fresh spring growth emerges a brilliant yellow that stands out nicely against the older foliage. The bright yellow color lingers for weeks before eventually hardening off to the typical blue-green color of the species. With its moderate growth rate, superior hardiness, and trim pyramidal shape, ‘Spring Sunshine’ has great potential and versatility, making it well suited to almost any garden across the country. Mature size: 12’H x 8’W Zone 2

Picea abies ‘Clanbrassiliana Stricta’ is named for Lord Clanbrassil of Ireland, who introduced several Picea abies cultivars during the late 18th century, this selection matures slowly into a beautifully compact, broadly pyramidal plant—the ideal shape for a dwarf Christmas tree. Mature size: 12’H x 8’W Zone 4

Open sprays of yellow adult foliage and characteristic threadbranch foliage appear in an inconsistent combination on this sport of Chamaecyparis pisifera filifera ‘Aurea’. With a conical shape, this vigorous growing plant has an informal appearance. Older trees respond well to occasional shearing to keep it neat and trim. Mature size: 12’H x 8’W Zone 4

The hardy Threadleaf Arborvitae grows slowly with long, thick, bright green to yellow thread-like foliage, filling out its narrow silhouette with tons of interest. Plant several in a row to create a wispy wall or feature ‘Filiformis’ as a single specimen, it will add unique texture and whimsy wherever it is placed. Mature size: 6’H x 6’W Zone 3

The low, spreading Juniperus chinensis ‘Daub’s Frosted’  is especially appealing: it develops new, bright, golden yellow growth that points in all directions above the bluish green, feathery, interior foliage. A lively selection for a sunny, well-drained bank or other challenging site where a reliable bit of color is needed. Mature size: 2’H x 8’W Zone 4

The tiny Abies koreana ‘Silberperle’ is an exquisite garden gem, with every compact branch decorated with pearls—really resinous, white buds—during fall and winter. Short, wide, deep green needles, accented with silvery white undersides, add to the plant’s year-round ornamental impact. Conifer collectors and other discerning gardeners will love adding this dense, very slow growing jewel to their rock or trough displays, where it eventually takes on a pyramidal form. Use caution in hot areas, where harsh rays can bleach the needles. Mature size: 1.5’H x 1.5’W Zone 4

Abies koreana ‘Wellenseind’ is a extremely compact, slow-growing conifer with short, wide, dark green needles that are held at wide angles. It boasts conspicuous white buds in winter. An excellent choice for containers or in the alpine rock garden, this delightful selection is sure to please. Mature size: 1.5’H x 1.5’W Zone 4

Short blue-green needles are covered with tiny white flecks of resin that are a distinguishing characteristic of the Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine. Pinus aristata ‘Horstmann’ is noteworthy because of its more uniform branching habit compared with the typical shrubby haphazard branching pattern of this long lived species. Growth rate is comparable to the species. Use as a focal point in the rock or alpine themed garden. Mature size: 4’H x 3’W Zone 4

Pinus pumila ‘Blue Dwarf’ was selected for a spring display of brightly colored cones that contrast with the superior color of the needles. It produces a dense load of twisted needles and a horizontal, spreading habit that is unique among Pinus pumila cultivars. Native to extremely cold, exposed regions of northeastern Asia, the tough constitution of this pine stands up to harsh conditions. Mature size: 3’H x 6’W Zone 4