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Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce

Picea orientalis 'Yellow Spiked'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

360 inches

Width

180 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived conifer

Native To

Caucasus, Turkey

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Picea orientalis is a slow-growing, medium to large evergreen coniferous tree, native to the Caucasus and northeastern Turkey. It is valued for its dense, dark green foliage and graceful, pyramidal habit. 'Aureospicata' is distinguished by its spectacular new spring growth, which emerges a brilliant creamy-yellow, creating a striking contrast with the mature dark green needles. This color fades to green by summer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

This spruce is a magnificent specimen tree, prized for its dramatic burst of golden-yellow new growth in spring that illuminates the landscape. Its elegant pyramidal form and dark green mature foliage provide excellent year-round structure and color.

Once established, it can serve as a component in a windbreak or privacy screen, though its slow growth rate means it will take time to become effective. Its dense branching provides good visual blockage.

The dense evergreen branches offer excellent shelter and potential nesting sites for birds, especially during winter. It provides cover from predators and harsh weather for various small wildlife.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to light shade and well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, but no deeper.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
Backfill with the original soil, gently firming it around the roots.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Protect the brilliant yellow new growth from late spring frosts or harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells when young.
Mulch to conserve water and regulate soil temperature.
Protect from harsh winter winds in exposed locations.

Don't

Do not plant in waterlogged or heavy, compacted clay soil.
Avoid excessive fertilization, which can harm the roots.
Do not prune the central leader, as this will ruin its natural 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

Striking spring specimen treeFocal point in mixed bordersEvergreen screen with seasonal interest

Companion Plants

Acer palmatum Rhododendron Hosta Heuchera Hydrangea quercifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce questions

What zones can Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce grow in?

Yellow Spiked 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 Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce deer resistant?

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

When does Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce bloom?

Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce typically blooms in late spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce need full sun?

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

Is Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Yellow Spiked Oriental Spruce handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.