Description
Full SunBest outdoor position
Moderate WaterMoist, well-drained soil
Potted Christmas TreePerfect for the festive season
Ideal for PotsFor festive display
15-20mMature height
2.5-4mMature width
Full SunBest outdoor positionModerate WaterMoist, well-drained soilPotted Christmas TreePerfect for the festive seasonIdeal for PotsFor festive display15-20mMature height2.5-4mMature widthSuitable For
Feature TreeNarrow SpacesArchitectural FeatureEvergreen StructureEntrance FeatureFocal Point
Why We Recommend It
- A slender, elegant living Christmas tree with dark needles flashing silver underneath.
- Its narrow mature habit suits cool-climate gardens with less horizontal space than many large spruces require.
- Ideal for gardeners wanting a refined vertical feature that remains attractive throughout the year.
Pot Sizes & Plant Heights
200mm pot400mm above pot
Available sizes and plant heights are an approximate guide only. Stock fluctuates through the season and other sizes may be available. All plant stock and sizes are approximate and subject to grower availability at the time of year. View our Pot Sizes Explained guide.
Special Order Item
This tree is available by special order only and is not held in stock at our stores. Orders will be filled within 1-2 weeks of ordering. If you have questions or enquiries about placing an order, please contact us via our online form.
Santa's Tree Scorecard
Branch Strength3/5
Colour Hold4/5
Festive Fragrance3/5
Needle Retention3/5
Why it shines: Its narrow form and silver-backed needles give Serbian Spruce an elegant two-tone appearance.
Plant Details
| Botanical Name | Picea omorika |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Serbian Spruce, Balkan Spruce, Omorika Spruce |
| Plant Type | Evergreen conifer tree |
| Position | Full sun |
| Mature Size | 15-20m high x 2.5-4m wide |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance. Apply controlled-release fertiliser in spring. Maintain one central leader and make only light corrective pruning, as the narrow natural form is the main feature. |
| Soil Type | Moist, well-drained soil across a broad pH range |
Care Guide
Choose full sun and moist, well-drained soil. Serbian Spruce is adaptable to a wider soil pH range than many spruces but still prefers a cool root zone. Indoors, provide a cool bright room for no more than about 7-10 days, away from heating.
Use moist, well-drained soil across a broad ph range. If keeping the tree in a container after Christmas, use a quality premium potting mix and move it into a larger pot as the root system fills the current container.
Keep the potting mix evenly moist and check it daily during the festive display. Water regularly after planting until established, particularly during dry or windy conditions.
Apply controlled-release fertiliser in spring. Maintain one central leader and make only light corrective pruning, as the narrow natural form is the main feature.
Flowering, Fruiting & Fragrance
| Flower Colour | N/A |
|---|---|
| Flowering Period | N/A |
| Fruiting | Small pendant cones mature from purple-brown tones to brown on established trees. |
Delivery Restrictions
Due to Australian quarantine restrictions, this product cannot be sent to WA, NT or TAS.
Complete The Project
- Premium potting mix for container growing
- Controlled-release fertiliser for trees and shrubs
- Organic mulch for planting out
- Decorative outer pot or basket for the festive display
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sun does Serbian Spruce need?
Serbian Spruce grows best in full sun. Choose a position that also provides the cool root conditions and drainage described in the care guide.
How often should I water Serbian Spruce?
Check the potting mix regularly and water thoroughly when the upper layer begins to dry. Keep the root ball evenly moist during the festive display, but never leave the pot standing in water.
How big does Serbian Spruce grow?
Serbian Spruce can reach around 15-20m high and 2.5-4m wide in suitable conditions. Allow for the mature size before choosing a permanent garden position.
Is Serbian Spruce low maintenance?
Serbian Spruce is generally low maintenance once established. Preserve its natural form and limit pruning to damaged, competing or poorly placed growth.
Can Serbian Spruce stay in a pot?
Yes, while it remains manageable. Repot as the roots fill the container and remember that this is an outdoor tree rather than a permanent indoor plant.
How long can Serbian Spruce stay indoors for Christmas?
Keep the indoor display as short as practical, ideally around a week. Place it in a cool, bright room away from heaters and air-conditioning, check moisture daily and return it outdoors gradually after Christmas.
Can I plant Serbian Spruce in the garden after Christmas?
Yes, provided the site suits its growing needs and has enough room for the mature tree. Water it well before planting and maintain regular moisture while it establishes.
