Botanical profile

Picea abies 'Motala'

Latin name
Picea abies 'Motala'
Common name
Norway spruce 'Motala'
Type
Coniferous
Family
Pinaceae

Picea abies 'Motala', known as Norway spruce 'Motala', is an ornamental dwarf conifer prized for its compact and slightly spreading habit. This variety forms a small, dense shrub with horizontal branches that create a low, regular silhouette, ideal for rockeries, borders, and dwarf conifer beds. Its foliage of short, dark green needles densely covers the branches, creating a fine, uniform texture that remains decorative all year round. Thanks to its slow growth and naturally compact shape, this spruce maintains a neat appearance for a long time without requiring extensive pruning. Very hardy and durable, it adapts well to cold climates and ordinary, well-drained soils. It prefers full sun locations where its foliage remains dense and vigorous.

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
Not specified
Fruiting
Small, light brown cones typical of spruce trees
Foliage color
Green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Dense globular conifer
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
2 ft (60 cm)
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.