white spruce

tree

Also known as: Picea glauca

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

The white spruce (Picea glauca) is a widely distributed evergreen tree found in the coniferous forests of Canada and the northern United States. It is a member of the spruce genus (Picea), which includes about 40 species known for their timber and ornamental value.12

White spruces typically grow to about 18 to 21 meters (60 to 70 feet) tall and have short, stiff, blue-green needles and slender cones. This species is important for pulp production and its light, pale, tough wood is used in construction. A drought-tolerant cultivar, Picea glauca ‘Black Hills,’ is also used in landscaping and windbreaks.21

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

spruce
Major species
white spruce (P. glauca) are found throughout most of northern North America, from the Great Lakes to the Arctic tree line. Both are used for pulp. White spruce produces good lumber, and black spruce is the source of spruce gum. White spruce usually is 18…
Read More
white spruce (P. glauca) are found throughout most of northern North America, from the Great Lakes to the Arctic tree line. Both are used for pulp. White spruce produces good lumber, and black spruce is the source of spruce gum. White spruce usually is 18…
Read More