Botanical profile

Picea pungens 'Moonstone'

Latin name
Picea pungens 'Moonstone'
Common name
Colorado Blue Spruce 'Moonstone'
Type
Coniferous
Family
Pinaceae

Picea pungens 'Moonstone', also known as 'Moonstone' Blue Spruce, is a particularly decorative dwarf conifer prized for the luminous color of its foliage and its compact habit. This variety forms a small, dense, rounded shrub that fits perfectly into rockeries, dwarf conifer beds, and alpine gardens. Its stiff needles have a very light silver-blue hue that reflects light and creates an almost frosted effect in the garden, hence its name, which evokes the moonstone. This coloration remains attractive all year round and provides a remarkable contrast with darker green foliage. Thanks to its slow growth and naturally regular silhouette, this spruce maintains its compact shape for a long time without needing pruning. Very hardy, it prefers full sun locations and well-drained soil.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zone 2
Exposure
Sun
Watering
Moderate, tolerates drought well once established
Fertilization
Light fertilization in spring if necessary
Soil type
Well-drained soil, tolerates poor 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
Blue-green
Foliage type
Persistent
Shape
Dense and round
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
3 ft (1 m)
Width
4 ft (1.2 m)
Growth rate
Slow
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

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.