The Bird’s Nest Spruce (Picea abies ‘Nidiformis’) is a dwarf, slow-growing evergreen prized for its distinctive depressed, nest-like form. This unique cultivar develops a broad, flat-topped mound with a characteristic central depression resembling a bird’s nest. Its dense foliage consists of short, bright green needles on horizontal branches radiating from the center, providing exceptional textural interest and year-round structure.

Growth & Size

This variety exhibits a dwarf, spreading, and flat-topped growth habit with a characteristic central depression. It forms a broad, mounded shrub, typically reaching a mature size of about 3 to 4 feet in height with a spread of 4 to 6 feet.

Additional Notes

Evergreen with bright green needles year-round. Exceptionally hardy to Zone 3, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil while requiring virtually no pruning to maintain its unique shape. Its compact, spreading habit makes it outstanding for rock gardens, foundation plantings, low borders, or ground cover where quirky architectural form and low-maintenance elegance are desired.