Digging deeperPlant Library

Mesa Verde Spruce

(Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder)

Other Names:  Blue Colorado Spruce;Colorado Blue Spruce

Description:

A spreading and trailing shrub, very unlike the species; features dusty blue pointy needles, tends to crawl along the ground and over rocks or walls; durable and hardy, an excellent choice for an evergreen groundcover

Ornamental Features

Mesa Verde Spruce is a dwarf conifer which is primarily valued in the garden for its broadly spreading habit of growth. It has attractive bluish-green evergreen foliage which emerges blue in spring. The needles are highly ornamental and remain bluish-green throughout the winter.

Landscape Attributes

Mesa Verde Spruce is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a ground-hugging habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance shrub. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. It has no significant negative characteristics.

Mesa Verde Spruce is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Mass Planting
• Rock/Alpine Gardens
• General Garden Use
• Groundcover

Planting & Growing

Mesa Verde Spruce will grow to be about 24 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 8 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This is a selection of a native North American species.