Oriental spruce
Picea orientalisfam. Pinaceae
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Pl. 163F — Picea orientalis
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IOverview
Overview
Picea orientalis, known as the Oriental spruce, is a coniferous tree native to the North Caucasus and Transcaucasus regions, extending into parts of Turkey. This evergreen tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-7 and can grow up to 20 meters tall. The Oriental spruce is notable for its edible parts, which include flowers, inner bark, seeds, and shoots. Its adaptability and ornamental value make it a popular choice for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Oriental spruce?
Picea orientalis, known as the Oriental spruce, is a coniferous tree native to the North Caucasus and Transcaucasus regions, extending into parts of Turkey. This evergreen tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Picea orientalis thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-7 and can grow up to 20 meters tall. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist while providing adequate drainage. Propagation can be done through seeds or inner bark cuttings. The plant's edible parts include flowers, inner bark, seed, and shoots, making it a versatile addition for those interested in both ornamental and culinary uses.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-7
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Oriental spruce for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Oriental spruce in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Oriental spruce saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Oriental spruce in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; mix in compost if needed. For containers, use a pot with drainage holes filled with a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings directly into the garden or a large container. Dig a hole twice as wide but not deeper than the root ball.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist, especially during dry spells. Monitor for signs of stress and adjust watering accordingly.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade depending on local climate. Water deeply but infrequently once established. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Oriental spruce in late winter to remove dead branches and promote healthy growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersInner barkSeedShoots
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:ResinTanninLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 8 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 8 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 3 native· 8 introduced
Europe8 regions
native (1)Russia
introduced (7)AustriaBelgiumDenmarkIrelandItalyPolandUnited Kingdom
Asia1 region
native (1)Turkey
Broader regions
native:Transcaucasus
introduced:Turkey-in-Europe
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Pinaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Pinaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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