Bird's Nest Spruce

Picea abies 'Nidiformis'

Nature Hills Nursery

Distinctive Nest-Shaped Depression Creates Year-Round Focal Point in Any Garden
Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 3-7
Grows 4 ft Tall, 6 ft Wide
Evergreen Year-Round Color and Privacy
Native Shrub

$92⁹¹

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Plant Size

#3 Container

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: This evergreen thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct light daily to maintain its tight, dense form. While it can tolerate partial shade, too much shade results in a thinner canopy and a loss of that signature "nest" look.
Soil: Aim for moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If you have heavy clay, mix in organic compost at planting time to improve drainage, as this spruce will not tolerate "wet feet" or standing water which can lead to root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first year, water your Bird’s Nest Spruce two to three times per week to ensure the root system establishes deeply. Once mature, this shrub is remarkably drought-tolerant and typically only needs a deep soaking during extended dry spells or extreme summer heat. Inconsistent watering or allowing the soil to bone-dry frequently will cause the inner needles to turn brown and drop prematurely.

Pruning Tips

Because this is a slow-growing conifer, it rarely needs a haircut and should only be pruned in late winter or very early spring before new growth begins. Focus on removing any dead or damaged branches by cutting back to healthy wood, but avoid cutting deep into the center where there are no green needles. Think of pruning as a light trim to maintain its shape rather than a heavy renovation, as spruces do not easily regrow from old, bare wood.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced evergreen fertilizer in early spring just as the new light-green tips begin to emerge. This provides the nutrients needed for that fresh flush of growth and keeps the foliage a deep, healthy green. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer or fall, as this encourages soft new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost, leading to winter burn.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Low Maintenance, Compact/Dwarf, Evergreen, Deer-resistant, Drought resistant, Container Friendly, Non-invasive
Hardiness Zone	3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b
Sunlight	Full sun
Height	4 ft
Width	6 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate	Slow
Growth Habit	Bushy, Spreading
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	White
Foliage Color	Green
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Plant Name	Spruce
Botanical Name	Picea abies 'Nidiformis'
Species	abies
Cultivar	Nidiformis
Class	Pinopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Fun Dwarf Bird's Nest Spruce Has Unique Shape

Small, Dark Green Evergreen
Memorable Shape
Winter Interest
Hardy and Wind Resistant
Easy Care
Pest and Disease Resistant
Won’t Outgrow It’s Spot
Maintenance Free
Well Drained Soil and A Sunny Location Keeps It Happy
Deer Leave it Alone

If you are searching for an outstanding low-maintenance, evergreen plant to use as a specimen in a sunny spot, take a good look at the cute Bird's Nest Spruce (Picea abies 'Nidiformis'). This dwarf evergreen stays low and makes a big visual impact on your landscape.

Use evergreens to add structure, texture, and year-round color to your landscape. Bird’s Nest Spruce truly shines in wintertime.

This adorable, extremely small variety of Norway Spruce stays petite. It features a very distinctive look, with feathery, nodding branches that downturn in a graceful way.

The nicely structured branches grow out first, and then up. You’ll be amazed at the way the plant grows taller on the outside than in the center. It is a great name, as it features a decorative appearance that really does look like the nest of a bird!

Dainty, feathery needles add to the appeal. The plant will hold these short, dark green needles year-round.

Bird’s Nest Spruce grows slowly and lives for a long time. It is a useful small evergreen that will not outgrow its place. Try tucking one as an amazing specimen plant in interesting little spots here and there in the landscape.

You'll appreciate the charm of this cute, easy-care evergreen. It asks for very little in return. Bird's Nest Spruce has no significant insect or disease issues and is extremely hardy—even resisting harsh winds. Like all Spruce, they will need a spot in full sun and well-drained soil for best results.

This rounded, miniature variety makes an outstanding choice for small yards. You’ll love it! Order yours from Nature Hills today.

How to Use Bird’s Nest Spruce in the Landscape

Birds Nest Spruce is a hardy, low specimen evergreen that is perfect for rock gardens, retaining walls, or a great little accent on a berm or courtyard area. There are many places that can use some winter interest.

Try this in a sunny corner of your house or as a great foundation plant under your front windows. It makes a formal presentation when planted on either side of your front entrance.

It looks great as an evergreen accent in a jazzy container on your patio, deck, or front porch. Add them near a grouping of large containers to give 4 season appeal.

They make a unique, low ground cover in those hot sunny locations. Once they are established, they are very drought tolerant.

Birds Nest can be used in mass plantings for large-scale residential landscapes. They are tough enough to handle the rigors of commercial applications.

They’ll make a whimsical addition to the yard. Why not include yard art of bird sculptures nearby? Go as high-end and sophisticated as you like, or splash out on cheap and cheerful outdoor bird decorations.

Consider decorating these cuties for every Holiday! It won’t cost much to set up a treasured collection of outdoor ornaments for these compact plants. Have fun with this appealing evergreen. After all, it’s a Spruce and will still look elegant no matter what you place nearby.

You could get lost in the intricate branch structure. Use one as a “chilled out” focal point in a Meditation Garden or try your hand at the ancient art of Bonsai.

Use at the top of a retaining wall, and underplant with weeping Juniper groundcover. Give them plenty of room to achieve their magnificent “bird’s nest.”

Bird’s Nest Spruce can also be used as a groundcover, or edging plant along a garden border. Plant them 3-4 feet apart on center. You’ll measure from the center of one to the center of the next.

Because it can take several years for the plants to reach size, please be patient. Or, buy the largest container size we have in stock. You’ll start with a more mature plant that has received expert care its whole life!

#ProPlantTips for Care

This is a no-fuss conifer that can be planted in just about any soil, as long as it drains well. If you see puddles that remain long after a rain, you’ll need to “mound up.” Add 18” of soil on top of your native soil and plant directly in that mound.

Please give Spruce Trees a full sun location. Young plants require careful attention to water as they work to establish their roots in your landscape.

Use the “Finger Test” to check. Poke your index finger into the dirt near your plant up to the 2nd knuckle. Is it getting dry? Give it a nice, long drink. Still moist? Skip watering that day.

After the first few seasons, you’ll be amazed at how drought-tolerant these beautiful dwarf globe shrubs become.

Pruning is not really even needed, but should any branches need to be shortened up—prune in spring before new growth begins.

Like many trees and shrubs, Bird's Nest Spruce appreciates a light application of mulch over the root system. Pull the mulch back several inches around the trunk to give air circulation.

Enjoy your Bird’s Nest Spruce. It can really become a cherished feature of your yard. You won’t have to fuss or muss with it, and it sure brings a whole lot of character.

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Growing Zones 3–7

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is bird nest?

Bird's Nest Spruce pricing varies by size, typically ranging from $30-80 depending on container size and maturity. This slow-growing dwarf evergreen is a long-term investment that won't outgrow its space. Check current availability and sizes to find the best option for your landscape needs.

Does Bird's Nest Spruce grow well in my planting zone (e.g., zone 3-8)?

Bird's Nest Spruce thrives in zones 3-8, making it extremely hardy even in harsh climates with strong winds. This dwarf Norway Spruce variety tolerates cold exceptionally well while staying compact and low-maintenance. Plant in full sun with well-drained soil for best results, available at naturehills.com.

What are the full sun and partial shade requirements for Bird's Nest Spruce?

Bird's Nest Spruce requires full sun for optimal growth and performance. Like all spruces, it needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its compact shape and healthy dark green needles. Plant it in the sunniest spot available in your yard.

How often should I water Bird's Nest Spruce, especially after planting?

Water newly planted Bird's Nest Spruce deeply once or twice weekly for the first growing season. Once established, this drought-tolerant evergreen needs minimal watering since it prefers well-drained soil. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 2 inches deep before watering.

Is Bird's Nest Spruce deer-resistant or tolerant of rabbits?

Bird's Nest Spruce is deer-resistant, as deer typically avoid evergreen conifers with their tough, resinous needles. While the product description doesn't specifically mention rabbit tolerance, most spruces are generally rabbit-resistant due to their needle texture. For reliable deer protection in your landscape, shop at Nature Hills for this hardy evergreen.

When is the best time to prune or trim Bird's Nest Spruce?

Bird's Nest Spruce rarely needs pruning due to its naturally compact, slow-growing habit. If trimming is necessary, prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Simply remove any dead, damaged, or wayward branches to maintain its distinctive nest-like shape.

What fertilizer should I use for Bird's Nest Spruce and when?

Bird's Nest Spruce rarely needs fertilizer once established, as it's naturally slow-growing and low-maintenance. If your soil is poor, apply a balanced evergreen fertilizer (like 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth begins. Focus on providing well-drained soil and full sun instead.

How do I care for Bird's Nest Spruce in containers or pots?

Bird's Nest Spruce thrives in containers with well-draining potting mix and full sun exposure. Choose a pot at least 18 inches wide to accommodate its slow, spreading growth habit. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.

Bird's Nest Spruce

Picea abies 'Nidiformis'