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This name could be an understatement! In fact, the vigorous, spreading habit of this Larix decidua ‘Varied Directions’ produces robust twigs that propel the branches up and out, in—that’s right—varied directions. Golden tan branches, covered with thick twigs, eventually arch down and cover the ground in a unique configuration for each plant. Bright green spring foliage changes to gold in autumn before needles fall. Selected by Dr. Sydney Waxman, University of Connecticut. Mature size: Varies with culture Zone 2

This compact, narrow, upright arborvitae stays reliably green, even when subjected to the harsh cold and cutting wind of South Dakota winters. Thuja occidentalis ‘Rushmore’ is a seedling selection grown by Norm Evers of South Dakota State University, it tolerates the bitter conditions of that state’s winters better than other upright options. Tough and adaptable. Mature size: 25’H x 6’W Zone 3

Soft, feathery, bright green needles cover a dense branch structure on this special garden plant. Pinus strobus ‘Sarah Rachel’ is rather nondescript when young, it forms a handsome conical shape in time. Growing much slower than other upright strobus, it fills a niche in the garden that hasn’t been available before. Selected by the late Sydney Waxman, early dwarf conifer pioneer. Mature size: 10’H x 8’W Zone 3

Selected for its resilience to harsh winter conditions, the sturdy, compact Picea glauca ‘North Star’ produces a densely branched, classic pyramid that is covered with medium green needles. Its moderate growth rate and ultimate, intermediate size, together with superior hardiness make this introduction from Iseli Nursery ideal for use in larger, more exposed spaces, mixed borders and beds. Mature size: 12’H x 6’W Zone 3

The superb, stately Picea pungens ‘Hoopsii’ is the most eye-catching of the Colorado Blue Spruce cultivars. Its long, thick, bright silver-blue needles have earned it the reputation as an exceptional specimen tree, with a full, pyramidal form. Iseli Nursery stakes all young plants to ensure a uniformly upright habit. Mature size: 25’H x 15’W Zone 2

The super hardy Pinus mugo ‘La Cabana’ will grow into a sturdy broad pyramidal form. Thick green needles and fat resinous buds add to the visual interest. ‘La Cabana’ will be a stout foundation tree for the garden, a tremendous low windbreak, or a featured specimen tree depending on culture. A great choice for pruning into a Hindu Pan form for our friends in the harshest of climatic zones. Mature size: 15’H x 12’W Zone 2

Royal Splendor has captured the best features of the majestic Picea abies along with its own favorable attributes, delivering a truly refined and noble tree for larger gardens. Rich, bright green needles cover the upward sweeping branches. As the plant ages the branching maintains its pyramidal form without the weeping secondary branching typical of the species. Beautifully symmetrical, this extremely hardy selection is fit for royalty. The registered mark Royal Splendor is used under license granted by the NDSU Research Foundation. Mature Size: 25’H x 15’W Zone 3

Blue-green with a sturdy yet soft texture and columnar growth habit.  Adds interest to those tight corners, small spaces near pathways, or even in containers on a balcony or flanking a  front door. Stable, more compact branching compared to other narrow upright eastern white pines. This makes for branches that hold up better under the weight of snow.  This pine prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. Mature Size: 25’H x 6’W Zone 3

Very short needles earned Picea pungens ‘Bonny Blue’ its name and fame. The tiny, narrow needles are bright blue and they are closely arranged with an angle that is acute to the stem. Slower growing than the species when young, the tree, selected by Roger Mackiness, Corbett, Oregon, matures into a large formal stature. Mature size: 20’H x 15’W Zone 2

A strongly fastigiate habit and excellent blue foliage make this narrow selection from Iseli Nursery the ideal blue accent or focal point where space is a consideration. Its posture suggests a fat, steel blue
cigar or a tall, lean sentinel in the landscape. Mature size: 15’H x 4’W Zone 2