Alcock's Spruce [Picea alcoquiana] was first collected by John Gould Veitch in September, 1860 during an ascent on Mount Fuji-yama. It is native to the mountains of central Japan, in a limited but stable number of subalpine forest areas. Under ideal conditions it assumes a broad pyramidal form and can grow to 80 feet in height. It was awarded the species name alcoquiana and the common name Alcock in honor of Sir Rutherford Alcock… who accompanied Veitch on the Mount Fuji climb.
As a garden plant in the United States it is considered hardy in zones 3-7… and it can be expected to have a mature size approximately 4-6 feet tall and 2-5 feet wide at the base. It grows best in good, medium-moisture soils that are well-drained. It tolerates clay soils. It is intolerant of air pollution.
If planted toward the southern end of its zonal range it should receive shade from noon to 4PM in the summer months and should be protected from hot summer winds.
This dwarf conifer would be a significant asset in any small or rock garden… and should be placed so as to be a focal point in any plant grouping it occupies.

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