Click on the images help you identify an Black spruce.
Form
Small tree; straight trunk up to 12" in diameter with somewhat drooping branches; mature tree usually reaches a height of 20' to 30', although under favorable conditions, it can attain a height of 70' to 80'; often associated with tamarack, balsam fir, and white cedar. In cold swamps the growth is practically stagnant and trees 2" in diameter have been found to be 127 years old.
Bark
Grayish to reddish-brown, scaly.
Leaf
Needlelike, bluish green, short, pointed, four-sided; length 1/2"; found scattered thinly over branches.
Fruit (seed)
Cones oval shaped, length 1/2" to 1-1/2"; young cones purple, mature cones dark brown, remaining on trees indefinitely; open in the fall to release seeds; seeds small, dark brown, and winged, mature in one season.
Range
Northern and northeastern parts of the state, extending as far south as northern Anoka County; shade tolerant; common marsh or bog species.
Wood uses
Yellow-white, light, soft, and medium strong; used for paper pulp and Christmas trees; not recommended for ornamental planting.