Return to 3rd Quarter 2022 articles.

It is the tallest species of spruce and one of the tallest species of trees in the world. These trees are commonly used as tonewood for various musical instruments. The Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) lives to be very old and outrageously tall.

Sitka spruce trees grow along the western coast of North America from Sitka, Alaska, to northern California. The tallest specimen is 315 feet tall (96 m) and resides in Olympic National Park, Washington. Old trees may not have branches lower than 98 – 131 feet (30 – 40 m). They have thin scaly bark, and their needles are arranged spirally along the twig.

Sitka spruce is the most important timber species in Alaska. The wood is valuable for use as turbine blades for wind-driven electrical generators and masts for sailboats as well as musical instruments. Sitka spruces are also a critical component of the health of the ecosystem. Sitka spruce forests provide habitat for a large variety of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. The forests foster hiding places, thermal cover, and a natural snow screen. Many species would be in jeopardy of habitat loss without the towering trees and vast forest canopy.

Because Sitka spruce is fast-growing, it is a top choice for reforestation efforts. When the tree is reintroduced to regions, it has massive effects on other organisms. Sitka spruce trees remind us that healthy, plentiful forests are part of God's design for the Earth. The tree's structure and wood type create excellent acoustic properties for use in guitars, violins, and pianos. Sitka spruces are beautiful trees that give us beautiful forests and help us create beautiful music.

Picture credits:
© drumlan. Image from big stock.com