Spruce, Colorado Blue (PICEA PUNGENS) - 'BAKERI'
This large, broadly conical selection of Colorado Blue Spruce has a nice pyramidal shape and beautiful silvery-blue needles. 'Bakeri' has long, stiff, dense foliage making it an excellent choice in the landscape. Furthermore, it is drought tolerant and adaptable to different soil conditions making it perfect for xeriscaping applications or traditional landscapes in dry climates.
With a mature height of 20 and spread of 12 feet, 'Bakeri' deserves a presence in the landscape. This tough tree is rated at USDA Hardiness zone 3-7 and has a moderate growth rate. Colorado Blue Spruces are listed as a selection in the University of Wyoming "Conservation Trees & Shrubs For Wyoming" guide. It is drought tolerant once established and is very adaptable to different soils, but should be planted in a well-drained site with full sun. It is susceptible to a few minor pest and disease issues, but these are very limited. In general, Colorado Blue Spruces can be susceptible to needle cast, canker, and rust. Aphids (particularly spruce gall aphids), scale, budworms, and bagworms can also be an issue. Spider mite invasions can cause significant problems with new growth and overall tree health.