Category: Specialty Conifers

Softer in color and in needle texture than dwarf Picea pungens cultivars, this compact, globose spruce traces its roots to a species native to the Rocky Mountains. Rarely seen in the trade, the muted, blue-green Picea engelmannii ‘Jasper’ thrives in cool, mountain conditions, so its subtle, rugged beauty makes a perfect addition to the alpine garden. Mature size: 3’H x 2’W Zone 3

Silvery blue on one side, green on the other, the long-enduring, straight needles of Pinus parviflora ‘Aoi’ give the naturally sculpted, upright tree a lush look. Sturdy branches display attractive silver-grey bark and loads of small cones. The slender architectural tree makes a dramatic feature and contributes an Asian aesthetic to the landscape. Provide full sun and good drainage. Mature size: 15’H x 8’W Zone 5

The classic Dwarf Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca ‘Conica’) may well be the most popular, familiar, dwarf conifer in cultivation. It grows slowly into a perfectly conical, small tree with a thick coating of fine, green needles. Its perfect form, compact growth and dense foliage make it ideal for entry, container and landscape. It responds well to shearing and shaping for topiary too. Found at Lake Leggan, Alberta, Canada, by Prof. J.G. Jack and Alfred Rehder of the Arnold Arboretum in 1904, it appreciates consistent moisture, good nutrition and an occasional blast from the garden hose during summer to increase pest resistance. Mature size: 6’H x 3’W Zone 4

One of the finest of the TRUdwarf^® Mugos, Pinus mugo ‘Sherwood Compact’ displays short, stiff branches that are heavily clothed with slightly twisted needles. Discovered in the 1950’s by plantsman Andy Sherwood, the compact, dense mound produces rich green foliage with golden tips in winter and white fascicles that give plants a radiant look that is full of character. Mature size: 3’H x 4’W Zone 2

An exciting addition to the TRUdwarf collection of mugo pines, Pesto® has a unique spreading habit. Its vibrant green needles contrast strongly with its attractive brownish purple buds. Maintaining its ground-hugging form with minimal or no pruning, Pesto® provides the gardener with a low maintenance choice. Extremely adaptable and hardy, Pesto’s® consistency, reliability, and attractiveness make it an excellent choice for many areas. Mature size: 10″H x 18″W Zone 2

The unique color of the compact, Chamaecyparis pisifera ‘Cream Ball’ is neither white nor yellow, but more a rich shade of cream, that will complement many landscapes. A close look at the foliage shows that a range of colors and textures, including bluish needles and green scales that are tipped with blond, contribute to the glowing effect. The well-mannered, easy-to-grow conifer maintains a uniform globe shape without shearing and makes a dressy accent or, lined up, an attractive border edge. More sun exposure will produce a brighter impact. Mature size: 6’H x 6’W Zone 4

Picea engelmannii ‘Bush’s Lace’ is a vigorous growing form of Engelmann spruce. With a strong central leader, its branches extend out before drooping downward. Unique in that, although the branching is a bit irregular, it still makes a stately presence in the garden. Engelmann spruce is native to the higher elevations of the Rocky and Cascade Mountains and is adapted to dealing with extreme winds and cold. Mature size: 25’H x 6’W Zone 3

Picea abies ‘Hillside Upright’ is a rare and unique form of Norway spruce, often considered a “natural sculpture”. Distinct green foliage over rust colored stems accent a rugged yet elegant appearance suitable for any type of garden setting. A truly carefree plant for the urban environment. Plant in full sun whenever possible. Mature size: 12’H x 6’W Zone 3

Little bluish green stars of foliage appear all along the ascending branches of Juniperus x Star Power^® (‘J.N. Select Blue’). Believed to be a hybrid of Juniperus communis and chinensis, this fast growing, columnar plant has very dense foliage. A deer resistant screen can develop in a short period and provides wildlife protection for other areas of the garden. Selected in 1998 by Michael Yanny, at Johnson’s Nursery, Wisconsin. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Mature size: 20’H x 10’W Zone 3

For about two weeks in spring, deep red new growth gives this uncommon cultivar a surprising look for a spruce. Gradually, the foliage changes to reddish-brown and then to green. Although it grows less quickly than the species, Picea abies ‘Rubra Spicata’ eventually becomes a large tree with an open habit. Found in Czechoslovakia in 1973, propagated in England, and introduced to the United States in 1981. Mature size: 25’H x 15’W Zone 3