Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Name: Dwarf Alberta Spruce
Brand: Nature Hills Nursery
SKU: 02838E
Price: 47.29 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.57 (14 reviews)

Picea glauca 'Conica'

Naturally Compact Cone Shape Stays 3-4 Feet Tall, Perfect for Small Spaces and Container Gardens
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-6
Grows 5-8 ft Tall, 3-4 ft Wide
Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Heat Tolerant

$47²⁹

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In Stock

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Plant Size

#1 Container #3 Container

Product variants

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Compact/Dwarf, Evergreen, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	3a to 6b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	5-8 ft
Width	3-4 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Bushy, Upright
Plant Life Cycle	Perennial
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White
Suitable Space	Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name	Spruce
Botanical Name	Picea glauca 'Conica'
Species	glauca
Cultivar	Conica
Class	Pinopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Superb Accent Evergreen Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Did you know that professional garden designers often start planning landscapes around evergreen trees and shrubs? It's because they provide a year-long structure, and set the stage for the overall look of the design.

One of the best options for a pop of evergreen color is the short-needled, miniature Dwarf Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca 'Conica'). This delightful, naturally petite evergreen tree adds steady color and fine texture in every season.

Don't let that dwarf size fool you. It is a tree, after all - albeit a small one - and has a dignified presence that grounds the other plants around it.

Our talented artisan growers also shape Topiary Spirals and Pom Poms of clipped Dwarf Alberta Spruce. Or, you can choose this natural plant, which will slowly grow into a charming pyramid. It will become a perfect accent anywhere you place it.

Why not mix both the natural and the Topiary together? They will play off each other and create a very memorable focal point without fuss or muss.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce features bright green foliage. It is a popular choice among gardeners and is often grown for living Christmas trees or holiday decorating.

Deer tend to leave it alone, but local songbirds will love it. They love to take shelter amongst the densely-held, short needles.

Frankly, it's hard not to fall in love with the character of this plant. Don't be surprised if you start to consider it one of the family pets.

Use a single tree as a specimen, or incorporate several throughout your landscape. With its clean good looks and easy nature, you'll be glad you made this choice.

Order your Dwarf Alberta Spruce from the experts at Nature Hills today!

How to Use Dwarf Alberta Spruce in the Landscape

This versatile, care-free, evergreen tree makes a fantastic backdrop for flowering plants. For a solid screen, plant it 3 feet apart on center, measuring from trunk to trunk.

Add it to your foundation planting. It won't outgrow its space, but will certainly add a lot of visual interest all through the year.

Plant it in the ground, or use it in large exterior containers. It makes a statement with its excellent, overall pyramidal form, and is sure to become one of your favorites. Dwarf Alberta Spruce is a perfect plant to use in large pots or urns on either side of your front entrance. Try mixing it with your other container plants on the patio or deck.

Plan ahead for Holiday decoration of exterior pots. Pro Tip: order early to avoid the rush as people are prepping their winter displays.

It doesn't take much to turn this cute little tree into a living Christmas Tree! Even a big, red bow wrapped around it can be very effective!

Dwarf Alberta Spruce can be kept in containers for many, many years. Keep your exterior pots placed out of the worst of the winter winds for best results. Be sure to water containers well into fall, only stopping once the ground is frozen.

Perfect Cone-Shaped Evergreen
Extremely Low-Maintenance
Useful Size for Modern Landscapes
Adds Critical Structure to Landscape Designs
Cute, Yet Sophisticated

#ProPlantTips for Care

Plant in full sun location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. The ideal spot would have a bit of protection from wind but still have good air circulation.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce performs best in well-drained soils. If you see puddles long after a rainfall, you'll want to plant in a raised bed to improve your drainage.

They need an even amount of moisture on a regular basis. Water well into fall to protect your plant from winter burn. Adding mulch is a great idea to keep the root system nice and cool.

Be careful not to give them too much water, and try to keep the needles dry. It's best to water the soil using drip irrigation, rather than overhead watering.

It rarely needs pruning. Dwarf Alberta Spruce maintains its perfect cone shape without any extra effort required.

Full Sun
Well-Drained Soil
Moderate Moisture Needs
Hardy, Durable & Easy Care
Rarely Needs Pruning

This endearing evergreen will be a wonderful addition to your landscape this season. Order a few from us today and begin enjoying its unique characteristics!

Other Spruce varieties

Dwarf Norway Spruce
Picea abies 'Pumila'

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Bird's Nest Spruce
Picea abies 'Nidiformis'

Regular price $92⁹¹
Rainbow's End Dwarf Alberta Spruce
Picea glauca 'Rainbow's End'

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Regular price $64⁹⁹
Bluhm's Dwarf Brewer Spruce
Picea breweriana 'Bluhm's Dwarf'

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Regular price $74⁹⁹
Echiniformis Hedgehog Spruce
Picea glauca 'Echiniformis'

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Pusch Dwarf Norway Spruce
Picea abies 'Pusch'

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Regular price $134⁹⁹
Pimoko Dwarf Serbian Spruce
Picea omorika 'Pimoko'

New arrival

Regular price $134⁹⁹

Some of the reviews shown are from related products the merchant grouped with this one.

ChatGPT actually suggested this particular type of tree for the two barrels I have at the entrance

ChatGPT actually suggested this particular type of tree for the two barrels I have at the entrance to my parking area… These folks had them and they shipped them in good shape and they’re looking great and they even suggested a good fertilizer which we added. All good! I was really nervous about buying plants on the Internet so I ask ChatGPT which places had the best consumer reviews and two places came up, one of which was this one. Good experience all the way around.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce really is a classic choice for container plantings at an entrance, slow and tidy growth habit makes them easy to keep looking sharp in barrels for years. Glad the trees arrived in good shape and that the fertilizer recommendation proved useful. We know ordering plants online for the first time takes a leap of faith, and we appreciate you giving us a shot. Enjoy those spruces!

WASTED MONEY and sweat!

This tree has been carefully planted, fertilized and water, but it is dead!!! DO NOT BUY if you live in Texas!!

Came in excellent condition

Came in excellent condition. So far all is well.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce are tough little trees once they settle in, and getting one in excellent condition is the best start you can give it. Thanks for sharing the update, Paul. Keep an eye on moisture levels through the first season and it should establish well for you.

Came very quickly after my order and was fresh well packaged

Came very quickly after my order and was fresh well packaged. Nice looking tree.

Fast shipping and a well-packed tree is exactly how it should arrive. Dwarf Alberta Spruces are tough little trees that tend to settle in well once planted, and with good drainage they'll hold that classic dense, conical shape for years. Thanks for the feedback, Edward.

easy to care for

My small spruce tree has gone through a lot of tough, hot, and windy weather and it looks great all the time It is nice and dense and looks like a miniature Christmas tree all the time. The bright green against a snow field is very attractive.

Hi Jo,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with your Dwarf Alberta Spruce! It’s fantastic to hear that your little evergreen has stood strong through challenging weather and maintained such a beautiful, dense shape. The image of its bright green holding firm against a snowy backdrop sounds truly stunning — just like a natural holiday decoration year-round!

To keep your spruce thriving through the seasons, remember to check soil moisture regularly, especially in hot or dry spells, as Dwarf Alberta Spruce prefers consistent moisture without being waterlogged. If you’re nurturing it in a windy area, occasional windbreaks or protecting young growth can provide extra support. You might also enjoy feeding it with a balanced fertilizer in early spring to boost healthy growth and coloration.

Feel free to reach out if you want tips on pruning techniques or ideas to complement your spruce in the garden. We’re always happy to help your plant collection flourish!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

easy to care for

Hi Jo,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your Dwarf Alberta Spruce! We’re thrilled to hear that your little tree has stood strong against tough weather while remaining dense and vibrant – it truly sounds like a festive joy all year round. The contrast of those bright green needles against the snowfield must be absolutely stunning!

To help keep your spruce looking its best through all seasons, consider occasionally mulching around the base to retain moisture and protect the roots from extreme temperature swings. Also, gentle pruning can promote healthy growth if you want to maintain that classic Christmas tree shape. If you have any questions or want tips on seasonal care, we’re always happy to assist.

Thanks again for your thoughtful review—your success with your plant inspires us!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Small

I planted several of these dwarf Alberta spruce along the 2 front corners of my house. They get plenty of sun and they seem to make my house look wider as they soften the corners with their light green foliage. Neat trees!

Hello Pro,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your dwarf Alberta spruces! It’s fantastic to hear how they’ve beautifully enhanced the front corners of your house, adding that soft, light green touch that makes your home feel more inviting. These lovely evergreens truly are charming and versatile, especially when planted to frame architectural features.

If you ever want to keep your spruces looking their best, just remember to water them regularly during dry spells and consider a well-balanced fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. And keep an eye out for any less vigorous needles—this is normal but can benefit from a gentle pruning to maintain their neat shape.

Thanks again for your thoughtful feedback by planting with Nature Hills!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Small

Dear Pro,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience with your dwarf Alberta spruce! We’re thrilled to hear that they’re not only thriving in their sunny spot but also enhancing the look of your home by softening those corners with their lovely light green foliage. It sounds like a perfectly thoughtful placement!

If you’d ever like tips on seasonal care—like mulching in winter or watching for any pests to keep your trees healthy—please don’t hesitate to reach out. These neat little trees are truly a charming choice, and we’re so glad they’re bringing extra beauty to your home.

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Tree form

My dwarf Alberta spruce arrived looking like a miniature Christmas tree and it has never changed, just a little bigger now. I like the bright green color also.

Hi Donny,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your dwarf Alberta spruce! We’re thrilled to hear that it still resembles that charming miniature Christmas tree look — and that bright green color really makes it a delightful addition to your space. These evergreens are such a versatile and easy-to-care-for plants, and it sounds like yours is thriving just as hoped.

If you ever want to encourage slightly fuller growth, consider rotating its placement every so often to give all sides even sunlight, and make sure it's planted in well-draining soil to keep it happy. Feel free to check out our online care guides for more tips—that way, your spruce can stay vibrant season after season!

Thanks again for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review, Donny. Your green thumb is clearly making the magic happen!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Tree form

My dwarf Alberta spruce arrived looking like a miniature Christmas tree and it has never changed, just a little bigger now. I like the bright green color also.

Hello Donny,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with your dwarf Alberta spruce! We’re delighted to hear it has thrived for you and maintained that charming “miniature Christmas tree” form you love. Its bright green color is truly one of the standout features of this little evergreen.

If you ever want to help it grow a bit fuller or encourage new growth, remember that dwarf spruces prefer well-drained soil and a spot with plenty of sunlight. Occasional gentle pruning can also help maintain its shape while promoting healthy branches.

We’re thrilled that this plant has brought a touch of year-round cheer to your space—thank you for trusting us to be part of your gardening journey!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Dwarf Alberta Spruce Tree

This is a great plant to grow takes a long time to grow so you can even grow it in your house. I think you should get a couple to plant around your house.

Hello Dark B.,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts on the Dwarf Alberta Spruce! We’re delighted to hear you’re enjoying this slow-growing beauty—it truly makes a calm and lovely addition indoors or around your home. You’re absolutely right that growing a couple around the house can create a charming natural ambiance.

If you’re planting several outdoors, just keep in mind they thrive best in well-drained soil with morning sun and some afternoon shade for optimal growth. Regular watering and occasional feeding will also keep them flourishing happily. Feel free to reach out if you’d like tips tailored to your climate or care schedule!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Dwarf Alberta Spruce Tree

This is a great plant to grow takes a long time to grow so you can even grow it in your house. I think you should get a couple to plant around your house.

Hello DarkBrony666,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with the Dwarf Alberta Spruce! We're thrilled to hear it's a great plant that fits well indoors and appreciate your suggestion to plant a few around the house — they indeed make lovely, charming additions to any space. Since the Dwarf Alberta Spruce grows slowly, it’s perfect for indoor growing with the right care. Just be sure to provide it with bright, indirect light and keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged to keep it thriving.

If you ever want more tips or ideas for arranging your greenery, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to help your indoor forest flourish!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

Master Gardener

i just want to thank you for the high quality dwarf Alberta Spruce received today. It is so green and well packed. Will order the 'Mops' evergreen companion. I'm zone 6 , so will be planting it on the east side of my property. The view from my kitchen window will be fantastic! Thanks again.

Hi Viveca,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that your Dwarf Alberta Spruce arrived healthy and beautifully packed—that fresh green color is the best reward after shipping. Planting your ‘Mops’ evergreen on the east side sounds like a fantastic choice since it will enjoy morning sun while being protected from harsh afternoon rays in zone 6. Your kitchen window view is sure to be stunning!

If you’d like tips for planting and caring for your new spruce companions, feel free to check out our care guides online or reach out anytime. Every little detail counts in helping these evergreens thrive happily in your garden.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Master Gardener

Dear Viveca,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled to hear that your Dwarf Alberta Spruce arrived healthy, lush, and well packed. Your appreciation means a lot to us, and knowing it will grace your view from the kitchen window makes us even happier to have been part of your garden journey.

Planning to add the ‘Mops’ evergreen as a companion is a fantastic choice! Both of these evergreens thrive well in USDA Zone 6 and should do wonderfully on the east side of your property, especially benefit from the morning sun and protection from harsh afternoon heat. Do consider watering regularly during establishment, and a layer of mulch can help retain moisture and protect the roots during colder months.

If you want tips on the best planting techniques or care to help your new green friends settle in comfortably, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to assist!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Do dwarf alberta spruce need full sun?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. While it tolerates some shade, full sun exposure produces the densest, most vibrant green foliage and maintains the tree's naturally compact pyramid shape. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best results.

Are dwarf alberta spruce deer resistant?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce is deer resistant and typically left alone by browsing deer. The dense, short needles aren't appealing to deer, though songbirds love sheltering in the foliage. For reliable deer-resistant evergreen structure, shop at Nature Hills.

How big does Dwarf Alberta Spruce get at maturity?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce typically reaches 6-8 feet tall and 4-5 feet wide at maturity after 10-15 years of very slow growth. This naturally compact evergreen maintains its pyramidal shape without pruning. Plant it where you want a permanent, low-maintenance focal point that won't outgrow its space.

What are the planting and care requirements for Dwarf Alberta Spruce, like soil and watering?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce thrives in well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade conditions. It's drought tolerant once established but benefits from regular watering during its first growing season. Plant in zones 2-8 and space 3 feet apart for screening. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root development.

Can I plant Dwarf Alberta Spruce in a pot or container outdoors?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce thrives in containers and makes an excellent potted specimen. Its naturally compact size and slow growth habit make it ideal for outdoor containers. Use a large pot with drainage holes and choose cold-hardy varieties available at naturehills.com for year-round success.

How fast does Dwarf Alberta Spruce grow?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce grows very slowly, typically 2-4 inches per year. This naturally compact evergreen will slowly develop into a charming pyramid shape over many years. Plan for a mature height of 6-8 feet after 20+ years, making it perfect for small spaces where you want permanent structure.

Is Dwarf Alberta Spruce hardy in cold climates like Alaska or zone 2?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce is extremely cold hardy and thrives in zones 2-6, making it an excellent choice for Alaska and other harsh northern climates. This tough evergreen can handle temperatures well below zero while maintaining its attractive pyramidal shape year-round. Plant it in a protected spot with good drainage for best winter performance.

What type of soil and fertilizer does Dwarf Alberta Spruce prefer?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce thrives in well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0). It prefers consistent moisture but not waterlogged conditions. Feed with a balanced evergreen fertilizer in early spring, avoiding high-nitrogen formulas that can cause soft growth vulnerable to winter damage.

How should Dwarf Alberta Spruce be shipped, and will it arrive healthy?

Dwarf Alberta Spruce ships well as a hardy evergreen that tolerates transport stress better than most trees. These slow-growing conifers arrive with their root systems intact and adapt quickly to new locations. Plant immediately upon arrival and water thoroughly to help establishment.

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Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Picea glauca 'Conica'

Superb Accent Evergreen Dwarf Alberta Spruce