Spruces have been utility plants in Minnesota landscape for years, but most of them are standard blue, Norway, black, or white spruces. Adventuresome gardeners should consider Picea mariana “Aurea” as a striking alternative. A relatively compact specimen, this delightful tree reaches 25′ with a 10′ spread and a graceful, somewhat open habit due to its elegant branching and very short needles. This plant resembles the Oriental spruce cultivar “Skylands” but with better hardiness and less susceptibility to winter dessication.