Kosters Blue Spruce

A universal favorite among the conifers Kosters Blue Spruce (Kosteriana) has such superb color and fine form that few other trees can match its exceptional beauty. A slow growing pyramidal evergreen tree it is unlikely to reach more than 2-3 m in ten years and 6-10 m tall with spread of 3-6 m when mature. Needle-like foliage is frosty blue all year, but particularly pronounced in spring when new shoots appear. Climate influences color to a certain extent, in cool areas the blue is more intense than in warmer places. When young, branches reach ground level, later the tree becomes higher branched and open with slightly drooping branch tips.

Cones are pendulous and persist on the tree for a long period. Koster Blue Spruce favors cold regions rich excellent draining soil, ample water and an open situation. A marvelous focal plant for small or large gardens it also makes a delightful tub specimen lasting many years if knocked out of the tub root-pruned and reported with fresh potting mix every three to five years. Propagated only by grafting it takes two or three years of patient training of the leading top shoot in a vertical position before it decides to grow that way of its own accord and for the plant to fill out. Do not prune.