Skylands Oriental Spruce: A Chartreuse Conifer for Year-Round Glow

Among 100 conifers, this is the favorite: chartreuse foliage cools summer heat and brightens winter gloom, colorful cones add spring sparkle, and a manageable 30-ft height fits most gardens. Morning sun/afternoon shade keeps it happy in woodland settings.

Jay Sifford Garden Design

Quick Facts

• Botanical name: Picea orientalis 'Skylands'
• Common name: Skylands Oriental spruce
• Hardiness: -30°F (USDA zones 4–8a)
• Water: Medium, well-drained (1″/week)
• Light: Full sun to morning sun/afternoon shade (warmer climates)
• Size: 30 ft high, 10 ft wide; 4–6″/year once established
• Perks: Small-space suitable; some drought tolerance established; bird nesting

Jay Sifford Garden Design

Distinguishing Traits

Smaller cultivar of Caucasian/Turkish Oriental spruce (species to 70 ft). Introduced 1979 by Skylands Botanical Garden, NJ. Chartreuse year-round, brilliant in spring. Spring cones: pink pollen cones first, then cylindrical brown-purple seed cones.

Jay Sifford Garden Design

Jay Sifford Garden Design

Design Uses

Focal point in part-shade gardens needing a color jolt. Pair with pink-burgundy flowers (coneflowers, 'Black Beauty' Oriental lily). Companion shrubs: Chinese fringe flower, 'Rose Glow' Japanese barberry. Contrast shape with round boxwoods or 'Dragon Prince' Japanese cedars.

Planting Notes

Spring or fall (winter OK in warm areas). Average well-drained soil. Water 1″/week until established. Afternoon shade in all but northernmost range.

More: See more great plants with bright chartreuse foliage