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Gowdy Oriental Spruce

Picea orientalis 'Gowdy'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

216 inches

Width

60 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers cool, humid climates

Lifespan

Long-lived conifer

Native To

Caucasus Mountains, Turkey

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Picea orientalis, the Oriental or Caucasian Spruce, is a graceful evergreen conifer known for its short, glossy, dark green needles and dense, pyramidal habit. 'Gowdy' is a slow-growing, narrow, upright cultivar with a formal, spire-like shape. Its compact form and rich green color make it an excellent choice for smaller landscapes.

Uses & Benefits:

Its formal, narrow habit and dense, glossy green needles provide a strong vertical element and year-round beauty. It is an excellent choice for adding structure and elegance to small spaces.

The columnar shape allows it to be used as a screen or accent in tight spaces where a wider tree would not fit, such as along driveways or between houses.

The dense evergreen branches provide important winter cover and potential nesting sites for birds. Its cones produce seeds that are a food source for various birds and small mammals.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full morning sun and some afternoon protection.
Ensure the soil is acidic and well-drained.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball.
Set the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly.
Keep consistently moist, especially during the first few years.

Pro Tip

Protect from harsh winter winds and hot afternoon sun, especially in the southern end of its range.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.
Plant in a location with good air circulation.
Protect from drying winter winds.

Don't

Do not plant in heavy, wet clay soil.
Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Don't plant in hot, dry, exposed locations.
Avoid pruning, as it will spoil the natural narrow form.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Pest Check
Plant

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant vertical accent in mixed bordersFormal specimen for small gardensLiving screen for narrow spaces

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum Heuchera Hakonechloa macra Rhododendron Enkianthus campanulatus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Gowdy Oriental Spruce questions

What zones can Gowdy Oriental Spruce grow in?

Gowdy Oriental Spruce is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Gowdy Oriental Spruce deer resistant?

Yes — Gowdy Oriental Spruce is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

Does Gowdy Oriental Spruce need full sun?

Gowdy Oriental Spruce does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.