The needles of the golden Caucasian spruce emerge vivid yellow — then, gradually, they become softly gilded. (Richie Steffen)

The needles of the golden Caucasian spruce emerge vivid yellow — then, gradually, they become softly gilded. (Richie Steffen)

Great Plant Pick: Picea orientalis ‘Skylands,’ golden Caucasian spruce

This tree’s needles emerge vivid yellow; then, gradually, the striking conifer becomes softly gilded.

What: A golden beauty, Picea orientalis “Skylands” will shimmer in the large garden and be a beacon to draw one toward it. In spring the evergreen needles emerge vivid yellow; then, gradually, this striking conifer becomes softly gilded for the remainder of the year. Although this upright, pyramidal spruce tends to grow a tad more slowly in its youth than the species, it will eventually reach 35 or so feet in height.

Where: A site with full sun is best for this golden Caucasian spruce, although light shade is OK. Any soil is fine, as long as it is well-drained. Once established, this conifer is drought tolerant.

Size: The evergreen grows to be 35 feet tall and 6 feet wide when mature.

Care: Little to no pruning is required for this tree.

— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks

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