Leaf Identification
The Norway Spruce has dark green needles with sharp tips, about 1/2″-1″ long. Spruce needles, unlike fir tree needles, can be rolled between one’s fingers, as the needles are nearly square in cross-section rather than flat.
Twig and Bud Identification
The twigs are orangish-brown with needles alternately whorled . The apical bud is also orangish-brown and conical, resembling a rose with its scales.
Bark Identification
The bark of the Norway Spruce is reddish-brown to grayish-brown with thin scales.
Cone Identification
Staminate (male) cones are reddish-brown and small while ovulate (female) cones are large, brown, and cylindrical. At maturity, the cones are large, cylindrical, and chestnut brown. They hang down from the twig.
