Tis the season to appreciate the lovey green giants that speckle the winter landscape giving it some much needed colour, the mighty spruce tree. Now many of you may not genuinely appreciate the lyrics of “Oh Christmas Tree” but by the time this article is done hopefully you’re left with something to sing about.
If you find an evergreen tree that you think is a white spruce, you will notice the needles are attached singly on the branch. They are also four sided (it will roll in your fingers, but not smoothly). Their silhouettes are like arrow tips making them easy to draw and one of the reasons why it is such a popular choice for a Christmas tree. In addition, it has a very aromatic smell, particularly when a needle is broken. These needles are slender and coated in a waxy substance which is key to its ability to ‘stay bravely green in Winter-time’ as it prevents loss of water from the needles.
The white spruce is a bounty of gifts. ‘How lovely are thy branches’ particularly in winter for the wildlife. Due to the shape of its boughs and needles the accumulation of snow under a spruce tree is only half that of a deciduous tree during a storm. This means animals can use less energy as they pass through the groves underneath; no one wants to navigate through giant drifts of snow when food is scarce. All the snow being caught in the spruce branches provides insulation as well, so winter birds can hide close to the trunk to find warmth and shelter from cold winds. The spruce cones, full of seeds for energy are flaky and pull apart easily for squirrels providing quick meals, unlike the hardened pinecones.
Maybe you’re unwilling to huddle underneath a spruce tree to experience how comforting it can be on a winter’s day. No worries, the spruce tree is one of the top ten medicinal plants of Canada. Perhaps a warm cup of tea from its needles is more your style, full of vitamin C and antioxidants. Or chew on some spruce gum to get rid of your coughs and sore throats. When using any plants for medicinal purposes make sure you consult those who currently use the plant so they can warn you of side effects (like drinking too much spruce tea can have laxative effects).
If you are still unconvinced that spruce trees are something to be celebrated, just remember as you read this that your house is mostly likely already spruced up. Spruce is one of the most common lumber choices for framing, construction, even sounding boards in instruments because it resonates so well. So, gather close to the ones you hold dear and raise a glass to the spruce this holiday season to say thanks for the memories between your walls, on your back decks, and through decked halls. Thank you spruce for giving warmth to wildlife and us through winter storms and in our hearts as you stay evergreen reminding us of the beauty of life throughout the year.
Laura Griffin
“Downy woodpecker taking shelter in spruce tree.” Photo credit to Jackie Sills
