Alberta White Spruce Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.w. Daisy's White'
ABOUT
The 'J.W. Daisy's White' is a visually captivating variation of the commonly known White Spruce. This ornamental conifer is characterized by its stunning foliage that exhibits a striking contrast throughout the year. During the spring, the new growth emerges in a brilliant creamy white, creating an enchanting effect against the older, darker green needles. As the season progresses, the white tips gradually fade into a more muted shade, still maintaining a subtle variegation that stands out amidst the dense and lush backdrop. The form of 'J.W. Daisy's White' is classic conical, which is typical for spruces, and its branches display a symmetrical, neatly organized pattern that adds to its ornamental value. The plant's needles are fine and sharp to the touch, and they densely coat the branches, creating a full and robust appearance. Moreover, this spruce variety produces cones that are typically small and not prominently displayed, which keeps the focus on the striking variegation of its foliage. Overall, 'J.W. Daisy's White' is a beautiful conifer that brings a unique color contrast to landscapes and gardens. Its distinctive spring coloring and graceful conical shape make it an attractive choice for those looking to add a splash of year-round interest to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Pinaceae
Synonyms
Alberta White Spruce, White Spruce, Daisy's White Spruce
Common names
Picea albertiana 'J. W. Daisy's White', Picea glauca 'Daisy's White', Picea glauca var. albertiana 'Daisy's White'.
ToxicityTo humans
The common name for Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.W. Daisy's White' is White Spruce. Generally, White Spruce is not considered highly toxic to humans. However, like many conifers, parts of the plant can be irritating if ingested, and the needles may cause mechanical injury due to their sharpness. If large quantities are consumed, it may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or other reactions, such as nausea or abdominal pain.
To pets
The common name for Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.W. Daisy's White' is White Spruce. This plant is generally not very toxic to pets. However, the needles can cause mechanical irritation or punctures in the gastrointestinal tract if ingested in significant amounts. Additionally, the oils or resins found in many conifers can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is always best to prevent pets from chewing on or ingesting this plant to avoid any potential issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
10 feet (3 meters)
Spread
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to landscapes with its unique variegated foliage and conical shape.
- Habitat Support: Provides shelter and nesting sites for birds and other wildlife.
- Tolerance to Cold: Thrives in cold climates, making it a suitable choice for northern gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care once established, ideal for low-effort gardening.
- Privacy Screen: Can be used to create natural barriers or privacy screens in a garden setting.
- Soil Stability: Its root system helps prevent soil erosion, especially in sloped areas.
- Seasonal Interest: Offers year-round interest with evergreen foliage that changes color in colder months.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.W. Daisy's White', commonly known as White Spruce, can be used as a natural sound barrier when planted in dense rows due to its thick foliage.
- Bonsai enthusiasts may find White Spruce an intriguing challenge due to its ability to adapt to pruning and shaping in miniature form.
- The aromatic branches can be harvested and used as natural moth repellents when placed in closets or drawers.
- White Spruce can be incorporated into festive decorations, such as wreaths and garlands, during the holiday season.
- The cones of the White Spruce can be used in crafting, such as in the making of cone critters or as natural ornaments.
- White Spruce's dense branches can provide habitat structures in aquariums when properly treated and submerged for fish or other aquatic animals.
- Dried and hollowed White Spruce branches can be crafted into rustic outdoor planters for smaller plants or succulents.
- The wood from White Spruce can be used in the construction of musical instruments, especially soundboards for violins, due to its tonal properties.
- Photographers may use White Spruce trees as a serene backdrop or an element in compositions for outdoor photography.
- White Spruce needles can be steeped to create a flavorful tea, though it's important to make sure they are non-toxic and free from pollutants before consumption.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiWhite Spruce is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityWhite Spruce is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The White Spruce, as an evergreen tree, symbolizes resilience as it withstands harsh winter conditions and remains green year-round.
- Strength: Its sturdy nature and ability to grow in tough environments speak to its symbolism of strength and endurance.
- Fertility: As a conifer, its cones represent fertility and life, and its evergreen quality underscores themes of enduring vitality.
- Purification: The White Spruce is often associated with cleansing and purifying properties, reflecting its use in some cultures for clearing negative energy and rejuvenating the spirit.
- Protection: The tree's association with holiday celebrations and its resilience against the elements relate to themes of protection and the shelter it provides in its natural habitat.
- Peace: The White Spruce's quiet and steady growth is often symbolic of peace and tranquility, offering a sense of calm and stability.
WaterFor the Dwarf Alberta Spruce, it is essential to maintain a consistent watering schedule to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the first growing season after planting to establish a robust root system. Water the tree deeply once a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water for young trees and increasing the amount proportionally for larger specimens. Reduce the frequency during the fall and winter when the tree is dormant, and increase it during hot, dry spells. Avoid overhead watering to prevent foliar diseases, and instead aim the water at the base of the plant.
LightDwarf Alberta Spruce thrives in full sun, meaning it requires at least 6 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. It performs best in a location that receives morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deep shade areas, as insufficient light can lead to sparse foliage and poor growth.
TemperatureThe Dwarf Alberta Spruce is cold hardy and adapts well to a wide range of temperatures. It can survive winter temperatures as low as -40°F and is comfortable in summer highs up to around 90°F. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 30°F and 70°F, which promotes healthy growth without causing heat or cold stress.
PruningTrim the Dwarf Alberta Spruce to maintain its shape or remove any dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts. Pruning is usually minimal and should be done gently to maintain the natural pyramidal shape of the tree. It seldom needs pruning, so do it sparingly and only as needed to correct growth irregularities or damage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilWhite Spruce prefers moist, well-draining soil, typically a mixture of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDwarf Alberta Spruce generally requires repotting every 2 to 4 years, but as a slow-growing variety, it may not need frequent repotting unless it's grown in a container.
Humidity & MistingDwarf Alberta Spruce thrives best in average outdoor humidity levels; it is not particularly demanding in terms of humidity and can tolerate a wide range.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and airflow for Dwarf Alberta Spruce.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, shelter from harsh winds; mulch root zone for Dwarf Alberta Spruce.
Hardiness zone
2-6 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.W. Daisy's White', commonly known as the 'Daisy's White' Spruce, begins with seed germination, typically after a period of cold stratification which mimics winter conditions. Once sprouted, the young seedling develops its root system and initial shoots in a juvenile growth phase which can last for several years as it gradually matures into a sapling. During this time, the plant establishes itself and begins to grow its characteristic needles and develop a coniferous growth form. As it enters the adult phase, 'Daisy's White' Spruce produces cones that contain both male and female reproductive structures, with pollination predominantly achieved by wind. Successful fertilization leads to seed development within the cones, and when mature, the seeds are dispersed, often by wind or wildlife, to start a new generation. Throughout its lifetime, which can span well over a century in ideal conditions, this evergreen tree will go through cycles of growth, cone production, and dormancy, with distinct growth rings formed each year.
PropogationPropogation time
Early Spring
Picea glauca var. albertiana 'J.W. Daisy's White', commonly known as White Spruce, is typically propagated through the method of grafting, which is most popularly done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. In grafting, a piece of the White Spruce's healthy shoot known as a scion is carefully cut and then attached to the rootstock of another conifer with a compatible growth habit. The graft union is often wrapped with grafting tape or similar material to hold the scion and rootstock firmly together, ensuring that the vascular tissues align well for the scion to receive water and nutrients. Over time, as the graft heals, the scion should begin to grow and develop as part of the rootstock plant. This method requires skill and is best done by experienced gardeners or nursery professionals to ensure a successful outcome.
