Bush's Lace Spruce Tree

Light Needs

Partial Sun to Full Sun

(At Least 5 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

10-15 Feet

Mature Spread

4-6 Feet

Growing Zones

3 to 8

An architectural conifer with couture drape, Bush’s Lace cascades in silvery blue-green ribbons that read like living lace. The pendulous habit, soft-textured needles, and cool tone make it a standout specimen for modern courtyards, rock gardens, and four-season conifer beds. Slow growing and naturally narrow, it delivers high drama without overwhelming small landscapes.

Bush’s Lace Spruce Tree Care

Give this weeping Engelmann spruce full sun in cool to moderate climates (light afternoon shade is helpful where summers run hot). Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic soil; amend heavy clay with grit and compost to improve drainage. Keep soil evenly moist the first two seasons, then water during prolonged dry spells—spruce dislikes soggy feet as much as bone-dry roots.

Lay a 2–3" mulch ring to moderate temperature and conserve moisture, keeping mulch a few inches off the trunk. Stake the central leader upright for the first few years if you want extra height; otherwise, allow the top to arch for a lower, cascading profile.

Prune only to remove dead or rubbing wood—shearing spoils the lace-like character. Avoid high-salt exposures and drying winter winds when possible. Cold-hardy and dependable in USDA Zones 3–8.

Bush’s Lace Spruce Tree Spacing

Expect roughly 10–15 ft tall at maturity with a graceful, variable spread (often 6–10 ft, broader if untrained). As a focal specimen, allow 8–12 ft of open space so the skirts can drape naturally and remain easy to mulch beneath.

For a loose, conifer vignette, place companions 6–8 ft away to highlight the silhouette; along paths or patios, keep 4–6 ft from hardscape for airflow and maintenance. Not ideal for tight hedging; use as a statement tree or in mixed conifer groupings.

Why Grow Bush’s Lace Spruce Tree?

• Striking weeping habit with soft, lace-like, blue-green needles

• Compact, slow growth fits courtyards, rock gardens, and smaller lots

• True four-season interest and elegant winter structure

• Simple care: light staking, minimal pruning, steady moisture, good drainage

• Extremely cold-hardy (Zones 3–8); a reliable specimen conifer for northern gardens

A refined, year-round focal point that brings movement and cool color—Bush’s Lace turns even a small planting bed into a curated conifer display.