Colorado Blue Spruce Tree - Conifer of the U.S. Intermountain Region

The Blue spruce (Picea pungens) tree is also called Colorado blue spruce, Colorado spruce, silver spruce, and pino real. It is a slow-growing, long-lived conifer of medium size that, because of its symmetry and color, is planted extensively as an ornamental and for Christmas trees. Blue spruce is primarily native to the central and southern Rocky Mountains of the western United States.

• The Spruce-Fir Belt

About Landscaping Guide David Beaulieu says Colorado blue spruce trees typically reach a height of 30'-60' in the landscape and spread out 10'-20'. Their silvery-blue needles are prickly to the touch and aromatic. The pyramidal shape of Colorado blue spruce trees makes them a classic choice for a Christmas specimen.

• Colorado Blue Spruce Trees

Colorado Blue Spruce Forest - Photo by Steve Nix, Licensed to About.com