Native Plant Spotlight - Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis)

What is Sitka Spruce?

Sitka Spruce (picea stichensis) is a native evergreen tree that can grow to be some of the largest trees in the world. The tree is characterized by blueish green needles that are stiff and sharp. The bark of the tree brown to grey that looks like scales as the tree matures. The roots flare out at the base of larger trees forming large buttress.  The tree has many uses for both wildlife and people. The strong and light wood is prized in woodworking and industrial applications. The tree is an important wildlife life tree.

Sitka Spruce as a Wildlife Plant

This large tree helps create important habitat for a variety of wildlife species. The tree is an important wildlife life tree for many mammals that will eat the young twigs. The cones also provide seed source for birds and squirrels. The large trees also provide habitat and cover for nesting birds and mammals. When the tree dies it continues to give back to wildlife. The rotting stumps and logs can be used as den sites for bear and other mammals. The decomposing tree will provide nutrients to the surrounding forest floor. When these trees are grown in riparian habitats, the shade helps to regulate stream temperatures improving fish habitat. All of these traits make this a very important tree for wildlife habitats.

Sitka Spruce Growth Habits

The sitka spruce often grows to 60-70 meters tall over its long lifetime. This spruce can grow in full sun environments. The tree prefers to grow in moist but well-draining locations, meaning that it grows great in floodplains. It also tolerates saltier soils making it a great choice for planting along costal waters. Consider watering the tree in the summer for 3 or more years to help establish. The spiky needles of the tree often limit deer and elk damage but does not stop them altogether. Consider caging in the early years to allow the tree to mature and withstand the wildlife pressures.  White pine weevil (Pissodes strobi) can also damage the trees resulting in shorter bushier trees due to damage to the leader of the tree. This pest is more common in certain areas.