Sitka spruce

Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) is a large, coniferous, evergreen tree growing to almost 100m (330ft) tall with a trunk diameter at breast height that can exceed 5m (16ft). It is by far the largest species of spruce and the fifth-largest conifer in the world. Its name is derived from the community of Sitka in southeast Alaska, where it is prevalent.

Sitka Spruce Tree

In Sitka's alpine areas, you'll find stunted and uniquely shaped trees like the Sitka spruce, shore pine, mountain hemlock, and yellow cedar. These trees adapt to harsh conditions by growing in compact, twisted forms with dense foliage. #alaskacruise #itinerary #lookout #photospot #cruisedestination #cruise #photo #sitkaspring #springspringspring #springflowers #springsnow #sunnyspring #rainyspring #springtravel #hikealaska #hiking #travelsitka #sitkathrough4seasons #wildbynature

Identify|Calocedrus decurrens (Incense cedar)CupressaceaeIdentify species|Xanthocyparis, Thuja, CalocedrusCupressaceae

Photo about Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) needles lit by the sun. Image of picea, spruce, growth - 59901985

Different height, different habitat

No one knows how the Octopus Tree was formed, whether naturally or through deliberate shaping by natives. It measures more than 26 feet around but lacks a central trunk. Instead, its limbs extend horizontally by as much as 16 feet before turning upward to about 105 feet.

Have you seen Norway spruce growing as a landscape tree in the Pacific NW? It turns out Norwegians extensively planted Sitka spruce in Norway starting about 100 years ago.