Category: Specialty Conifers

A well-known, flat-topped, nest-type spruce, this broadly rounded, symmetrical plant produces layers of dense, horizontal or slightly ascending branches. Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’ grows very slowly and becomes much wider than tall with a nest-like depression in the center after many years. Refreshing light green. Mature size 4’H x 8’W Zone 3

A beautiful, spreading Picea omorika ‘Kamenz’ has a distinctive two-tone look. Short branches covered with typical Picea omorika needles, green on top and silver beneath, show off both colors at once. With shorter needles and a wider spread than P.o. ‘Pimoko’, the adaptable cultivar complements the form of a bank or slope nicely. Slow-growing and easy, with minimal maintenance. Mature size: 2’H x 4’W Zone 4

The compact, spreading Larix kaempferi ‘Wolterdingen’ provides exceptional seasonal interest for small landscapes and rock gardens. In early spring, soft, new, blue-green needles emerge and continue to decorate the delicate mound through the growing season. In fall, needles change to rich yellow before they fall to show off ornamental, reddish brown branches with scales reminiscent of an armadillo’s armor. Discovered in a park in Wolterdingen, Germany in 1970, by G. Horstmann. Mature size: 4’H x 8’W Zone 3

Unusually uniform branches, covered with short, dark green needles, point up and out on this distinct, nest-style spruce. When young, Picea abies ‘Pumila’ has a more rounded habit than the familiar, flatter types, but it eventually spreads out with age too. New growth appears later in the season than it does on other nest types. Mature size: 4’H x 4’W Zone 3

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