Botanical profile

Picea abies 'Fat Cat'

Latin name
Picea abies 'Fat Cat'
Common name
Norway Spruce 'Fat Cat'
Type
Coniferous
Family
Pinaceae

Picea abies 'Fat Cat', known as Norway spruce 'Fat Cat', is a compact dwarf conifer recognized for its rounded and very dense habit. This variety forms a small, slightly flattened globular shrub that brings a rich and structured texture to rockeries, dwarf conifer beds, and alpine gardens. Its foliage, composed of short dark green needles, covers the branches very tightly, creating a thick and uniform plant mass that remains decorative all year round. Thanks to its slow growth and naturally compact shape, this spruce retains its silhouette for a long time without requiring significant pruning. Very hardy and durable, it adapts well to cold climates and ordinary well-drained soils, while preferring full sun locations to maintain dense and vigorous foliage.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 3
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate, keep soil slightly moist
Fertilization
Light fertilization in spring if necessary
Soil type
Well-drained soil, tolerates ordinary soil
Minimum temperature
-40°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
Spring
Flower color
Non-ornamental
Fruiting
Small, light brown cones typical of spruce trees
Foliage color
Dark green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Dense globular conifer
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
90 cm (3 ft)
Width
4 ft (1.2 m)
Growth rate
Slow
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Pollinators
Attracts or supports pollinating insects

Pollinators

Deer
Less attractive or generally tolerated by deer

Deer

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.