Overview

The Colorado Blue Spruce is an iconic evergreen conifer native to the Rocky Mountains. Distinguished by its stunning blue-gray to silver-blue foliage, this pyramidal tree has become one of the most popular ornamental conifers in North America. As Colorado's official state tree, it thrives in high-elevation environments and is exceptionally cold hardy.

Identification

  • Distinctive blue-gray to silver-blue needle color
  • Stiff, sharp needles 3/4 to 1-1/4 inches long
  • Needles arranged spirally around branches
  • Pyramidal growth habit with horizontal branching
  • Cylindrical cones 2-4 inches long with wavy scale margins
  • Reddish-brown to gray bark with shallow furrows

Growing Conditions

  • Grows 50-75 feet tall and 10-20 feet wide in landscapes
  • Extremely cold hardy (zones 2-7)
  • Prefers full sun (6+ hours daily)
  • Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions
  • Requires well-drained soil
  • Moderate water needs once established
  • Growth rate: slow to medium (12-24 inches per year)

Common Pests & Diseases

Cooley Spruce Gall Adelgid

Creates distinctive pineapple-shaped galls on branch tips

Spruce Spider Mites

Cause needle bronzing and decline, especially in hot, dry weather

Cytospora Canker

Fungal disease causing branch dieback and oozing cankers

Rhizosphaera Needle Cast

Fungal disease causing premature needle drop from lower branches

Care & Maintenance

Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Avoid overhead watering which can promote fungal diseases like needle cast. Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches; avoid shearing which creates dense growth susceptible to disease. Monitor for spider mites, especially during hot, dry weather. Maintain good air circulation around the tree. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring if needed, but avoid over-fertilizing which can reduce the blue color.

Why Choose Earth-Wise?

Our ISA Certified Arborists have extensive experience caring for colorado blue spruces throughout Colorado's mountain communities. We understand the unique challenges these trees face and provide expert care including disease diagnosis, pest management, proper pruning, and health consultations. Whether you need help with an established tree or guidance on planting new ones, our team can help.