A large evergreen coniferous tree growing to 35-55 m tall and with a trunk diameter of up to 1-1.5 m. Leaves are needle-like, 12-24 mm long, quadrangular in cross-section (not flattened), and dark green on all four sides with inconspicuous stomatal lines. Cones are 9-17 cm long (the longest of any spruce), and have triangular-pointed scale tips; they are green or reddish, maturing brown 5-7 months after pollination. Seeds are black, 4-5 mm long, with a pale brown 15 mm wing.

Antibiotic, antiseptic, balsamic, expectorant and sedative (buds, leaves and resin); rubefacient and stimulant (pitch or resin from trunk).

Plants For A Future

A poultice of the sap or gum has been used in the treatment of boil and abscess pain.