NatureMan's Official Blog: Alternatives to Blue Spruce

The Colorado Blue Spruce has susceptibility to needlecast in portions of the the U.S. It can be deadly to millions of tree planted in the landscape. You still want that blue frosted look, but can't plant the Blue Spruce. Here are some trees that make a great substitute!

Concolor Fir (White Fir)

'Blue Cloak' This variety has been cultivated to be smaller than the traditional version, and to have a more silvery blue color.

Mature size: 25'-30' tall by 10'-15' wide

'Candicans' This variety is known to have the bluest of any White Fir. At a distance it may appear to be a Blue Spruce due to its deep blue color. Smaller than the traditional White Fir.

Mature size: 25'-30' tall by 15'-20' wide

USDA Growing Zones: 3-7

'Paul's Select' Norway Spruce

This variety of Norway Spruce is the only Norway Spruce to have Blue needles. A dwarf compared to the traditional Norway Spruce.

Mature Size: 15'-20' tall by 5'-10' wide

USDA Growing Zones: 3-7

Blue Atlas Cedar

Has deep silver blue needles. Doesn't form the traditional pyramid Christmas tree shape. Varieties include weeping, dwarf, fastigiate, and the traditional one has outward growth to add a unique look to the landscape. It is less hardy than all the others listed and the Blue Spruce.

Mature Size: 35'-50' tall by 25'-50' wide (traditional form)

USDA Growing Zones: 6-9 (can be successfully grown in Zone 5 in a sheltered area away from windy sites)

'Boulevard' False Cypress

Deep blue silvery foliage. Needles are bent and twisted, adds unique texture to the landscape. This is a dwarf tree/shrub. Matures to 10'-12' tall by 2'-4' wide.

USDA Growing Zones: 4-8

'Pacific Blue' Macedonian Pine

Outstanding blue Pine. Perhaps the bluest Pine tree out there! Soft long needles stay strong through strong winds, and winter cold.
Matures to 20' tall by 15' wide.

USDA Growing Zones: 4-7

'Candicans' White Fir