Originally, a number of plants were established as ornamentals, with Christmas tree plantings being established more recently. It has escaped cultivation in several localities and is considered naturalized in some of these areas. In Europe, Norway spruce grows from 130 to 215 feet in height, but in the United States is seldom more than 130 feet tall. Diameter may reach as much as two feet on older trees. It is readily identified by its dark green needles and drooping branchlets.
Trees have dark green crown with a triangular shape.
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.