Conifer Database - Little Gem

Conifer Trees Database

Welcome to the American Conifer Society Database

Established in 1983, our mission is centered on advocating for the integration of conifer trees in garden designs and landscapes. We are dedicated to educating enthusiasts and the general public about the proper care, cultivation, and conservation of these majestic and diverse evergreens.

    
Picea abies ‘Little Gem’

Picea abies 'Little Gem' is a deservedly popular and desirable dwarf conifer. It makes for a superb rock garden subject. This diminutive Norway spruce grows as a flattened globe with short, dense, slightly twisted, layered branches that hold finely textured, short, medium-green needles that grow crowded along the stem.

After 10 years of growth, a mature specimen will measure 1 foot (30 cm) high and 18 inches (45 cm) across, an annual growth rate of 1 inch (2.5 cm) or less.

[Iseli Nursery. Boring, Oregon] 'Little Gem' as a "nest-type spruce" with tiny needles and a very dense habit. "This miniature version of Picea abies 'Nidiformis' is simply a wonderful plant."
[Bob Fincham, ACS founder and owner of Coenosium Gardens] hot summer days can burn holes in larger plants. I have also seen this on potted nursery plants of all sizes during their early years of establishment in a nursery bed. To prevent this from happening, a location with some shade during the mid-day is beneficial. The plant is propagated by grafts for higher standards as well as by cuttings for lower plants.

This cultivar originated as a witch's broom that developed in the late 1950s on a specimen of Picea abies 'Nidiformis', the bird's nest spruce, which itself was a witch's broom that had been found on a Norway spruce. F.J. Grootendorst and Sons Nursery of Boskoop the Netherlands is credited with the broom's discovery, nomination and introduction to the nursery trade.




Picea abies

Picea abies

Picea abies

Picea abies

Picea abies

Picea abies

RECOMMENDED HARDINESS ZONES


HORTICULTURAL STATUS:Established / Published
COLOR:Medium Green
GROWTH SHAPE:Globe or Globose
GROWTH SIZE:Miniature: less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) per year / less than 12 inches (30 cm) after 10 years
ORIGIN:Witch's Broom


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