Description
Picea omorika (Serbian Spruce) Seeds
Zones: 4 to 7.
Native to a small region of limestone mountains along the upper Drina river of Bosnia and Serbia, in Southeastern Europe.
The Serbian spruce is perhaps the most aesthetically pleasing spruce tree and is increasing sought after as an accent landscape tree or to be planted in groups in larger landscapes. Although it can be broadly pyramidal, most trees have a slender trunk with short ascending or pendulous branches forming a narrow and very graceful, form. It has flat needles, unlike the four-sided needles of most spruces. It’s needle-like leaves are a bright green, with a pale underside providing a lovely contrast in the foliage. The cones are dark purple, maturing to brown. It prefers a sunny site or part shade with moist, well drained soil, but can tolerate a variety of soils. A beautiful tree and ideal for smaller properties due to its narrow form.
Size: Height 40 to 60 ft; Width 15 to 20 ft.
Germination Instructions
Stratification: Although not absolutely required, germination can be increased by providing about 90 days cold, moist stratification at 3° C (37° F) to 5° C (41° F).
- Soak seeds in water for 24 hours.
- Place seeds in sandwich bag(s) with a bit of damp sand or vermiculite to keep moist.
- Place the bag(s) with seeds in refrigerator for about 90 days.
- After the required time take the seeds out of the refrigerator and sow the seeds in pots 1/8 inch deep and cover lightly. Water gently so as not to wash away the seeds. Keep soil moist but not wet.
