Picea abies 'Nidiformis'

A dwarf spreading form of the Norway Spruce, 'Nidiformis' develops into a clump about 3 to 4 feet tall and up to six feet wide. The branches are very horizontal and layered and unpruned plants often grow taller around the edges than in the center of the plant. As this branching structure continues to mature the plant begins to look like a large bird nest, hence the common name 'Bird Nest Spruce.' This variety is easy to grow when planted in well drained soil, gardeners with poorly draining soils do best planting this and most other conifer species on top of landscape mounds to reduce overly wet roots. 'Nidiformis' prefers full sun but will grow in open shade as well, just don't crowd other plants close by as it will cause an uneven shape.

This evergreen has a flat-topped, dense layer of branches much wider than tall. It has refreshing light green needles.

A well-known, flat-topped, nest-type dwarf Norway Spruce, this broadly rounded, symmetrical plant produces layers of dense, horizontal or slightly ascending branches. It grows very slowly and becomes much wider than tall with a nest-like depression in the center after many years. Refreshing light green.

A wide spreading vigorous grower that often develops a central depression. This is a popular dwarf even if difficult to locate. Slow growing (only 2-3" per year) to 2 feet x 3 feet in ten years. Awards: Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. Recommended by: the Garden Clubs of America, and the United States National Arboretum.

Semierect branches curve outward from the center of this cute little plant causing a depression in the top, hence the name Bird's Nest. A dense, low mounding plant, ideal for rock gardens and containers as well as regular garden use. In 10 years it will grow approximately 10" tall and over twice as wide. Ultimate height is 3-6'.