Common Spruce

About

Common Names

Common Spruce

Classification

Evergreen Tree

Description

An evergreen tree which grows a single trunk with radial needle-covered branches. The tree reproduces from seeds released from cones which form near the tree’s crown. The wood of this tree is used primarily for firewood and as building material.

Ecology

Rarity

Common

Distribution

Subtropical through subarctic regions

Life Cycle

Wind dispersal of seeds from cones during fall and winter. Trees take 3-4 years to mature and reach a suitable size for harvest as timbre after about 10 years, given ideal growing conditions.

Related Species

Dwarf Spruce

Fire Spruce

Uses

Cultivation

Not cultivated, but managed woodlots in some regions.

Culinary

The needle leaves of this plant can be brewed as a tonic.

Medicinal

The sticky resin from this tree contains some medicinal qualities that aid with ailments of the chest and sinuses.

Other

• Building Material - :Wood from common spruce is a light and strong, serving as a decent building material.
• Fuel - The resinous wood is also a good source of fire wood.
• Fibre - the roots of spruce trees can be used whole for lashing, or broken down into rough fibres for modest cordage.

History

Cultural

To the Layor spruce trees hold certain magical qualities believed to help with nature spirits. Woven spruce branches are often used for charms and talismans.

Religious

Spruce is one of the three holy plants of the Kronar's mystic beliefs.