Again, another example of spruce species seeming to be adaptable (except the western NA spruces). Decent growth last year......

Mmm, let's see, Picea torano aka Picea polita, but this Tigertail Spruce is not to be confused with Picea bicolor 'Howells' Dwarf Tigertail aka Picea alcoquiana 'Howell's Dwarf. Wait, what? Anyhow, yours looks very healthy on that sloped site.

I've been waiting for an extra blue selection of P. meyeri to hit the market, but nothing so far.

How about a closer view?

Picea torano, plant about 18" in height

The needles do look like it is on the 'prickly side. ;-)

Has a nice look to it.

Thanks for posting.

I am trying to remember, but I think this species has the biggest buds I've seen on a conifer.
Really remarkably big. Or maybe I was just a lot smaller back then.

Well I can say for sure that buds are obvious! Measurement in mm

'torano is also latest Picea to break bud!