Unique Features: The Dwarf Alberta spruce is a variety of White spruce which grow across Canada and Alaska.  The original plant was discovered in1904 growing in Alberta, Canada.  The Dwarf Alberta grows very slowly, which is the definition of dwarf conifers, but can live 30 to 40 years even in this area.  The light bright green needles only grow to ¼” to ½” and are closely packed on the closely packed branches giving this little tree a stout and solid appearance.  Dwarf Alberta spruces can severely sun and wind burn during the winter when planted in exposed areas.  The best sites for planting are those with an eastern or northern exposure in the lee of other large evergreens or buildings.  They also do well in the dappled shade of large Ponderosa pines mixed in with other understory plantings.