Picea abies Gold Drift (Norway Spruce)

Adding color and drama to the garden, Picea abies 'Gold Drift' (Norway Spruce) is a striking, evergreen shrub or tree of mounding or weeping habit. Its pendulous branches are densely covered with bright lime green needles in spring, turning brilliant yellow if fully exposed to the sun. The intensity of the sun may burn the foliage when young, a tendency that decreases with age. Vigorous, this Norway Spruce tends to stay low unless trained upright on a stake. It may be trained to grow up to a desired height and then allowed to gracefully weep, with its branches clinging tightly to the main stem. A fast grower, over 12 in. per year (30 cm), this eye-catching golden Spruce can be grown over garden features or rockeries or developed into an exquisite, weeping tree. In all situations, it makes a great conversation piece.

• Grows up to 12-15 ft. tall (360-450 cm) and 2 ft. wide (60 cm) after 10 years if staked.
• Performs best in full sun in slightly acidic, evenly moist, well-drained soils. Adaptable to a wide variety of soil conditions, it tolerates dry sites and wind. Generally prefers cool climates and will struggle in hot and humid climate areas. Tolerant of air pollution.
• Perfect as a distinctive specimen plant in the sunny border.
• Watch for adelgids, aphids and conifer red spider mite. Easy to grow and easy to care for.
• No pruning required.
• Propagate by grafting or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Picea abies species is native to Europe.
• Find where this species is invasive in the United States.
• Discover beautiful U.S. native plant alternatives.