Additionally, spruce cones fall from the tree after seeds are disseminated, whereas fir cones disintegrate. Male and female flowers are found on the same tree and are produced in late spring. These cones are the largest of any spruce species. Cones mature in one year and ripen from September to November. The species is adapted to cool, temperate climates.
Growth is best in full sunlight in deep, rich, moist soils.
It is generally shallow-rooted and does not produce a taproot, thus is subject to being blown over by wind. One of the most important pests is the eastern spruce gall aphid, which lays eggs at the base of partially developed leaves near the tips of the twigs. A large cone-like gall develops at this point, beyond which all growth ceases. The spruce budworm can also cause damage to buds and foliage, but less so than for white or red spruce. For Christmas trees, overall color of Norway spruce is fair to excellent, but needle retention is considered poor unless the trees are cut fresh and kept properly watered.