The Birds Nest Spruce has green foliage which emerges lime green in spring and the darkens throughout the year. The needles remain green through the winter. The cones and bark neither significantly add or detract from the foliage.
This shrub is a dense multi-stemmed evergreen shrub with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage. It is a relatively low maintenance shrub. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. Like all spruce, deer tend to leave it alone.
Birds Nest Spruce will grow to be about 4 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 5 feet. It tends to fill out right to the ground and therefore doesn't necessarily require facer plants in front. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 50 years or more.
This shrub does best in full sun to partial shade with average to evenly moist conditions, but will not tolerate standing water. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt which makes it a good choice as a driveway hedge. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments.