Photo of Black Spruce (Picea mariana)

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© Derek

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Inclusion in Plant ID / Comparison Guides

This photo is featured in 2 plant ID/comparison guides:

White Spruce (Picea glauca) vs. Black Spruce (Picea mariana)

Updated February 27th, 2022

These two species are often confused as their ranges overlap and both have bluish foliage. They can be relatively easily distinguished by cones, as well as by characteristics of twigs, needles, and buds, and major differences in growth habit and habitat. White spruce occupies richer habitats, with deep, well-drained soils, whereas black spruce is found on poorly drained and/or thin soils. Although it happens rarely, these species can hybridize, so it may not be possible to identify all individuals.

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Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea) vs. Black Spruce (Picea mariana)

Updated November 1st, 2021

Although balsam fir looks very different from black spruce when growing in shade, black spruce is frequently confused with balsam firs growing in open, sunny conditions; the species look most similar when they co-occur on rocky sites near the tree line. Both can have a narrow, conical shape, short, bluish needles, and hairy twigs, especially on new growth. They are easily distinguished by cones or close examination of needles. They also have differences in shape, as well as habitat and successional stage: balsam fir is absent from bogs and poorly-drained sites, where black spruce is common, and balsam fir occupies a later stage in forest succession in areas where both species co-occur.

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