Blue Spruce is the iconic conifer of the southern Rocky Mountains, famous for its striking silver-blue to steel-blue needles that are among the most intensely colored of any conifer. Native to elevations of 6,000–11,000 feet in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, and New Mexico, it grows to 75 feet tall with a stiff, symmetrical pyramidal form. The blue waxy coating on the needles reflects UV light and reduces moisture loss. It is the state tree of Colorado and Utah.
Habitat
Native to moist canyon bottoms and stream sides in the southern Rocky Mountains at high elevations.
Diet
Seeds eaten by crossbills, siskins, and chickadees; provides nesting cover for many bird species.
How common
Uncommon
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