What is the common name for Picea pungens 'Glauca'?

The common name for Picea pungens 'Glauca' is indeed the Blue Colorado Spruce. This name is derived from two main characteristics of the plant. First, "Picea pungens" is a species of spruce that is native to the Rocky Mountains in the United States, particularly around Colorado. The 'Glauca' variety, in particular, exhibits striking blue-gray foliage, which is a distinctive feature of this cultivar.

The term "Blue" in the common name refers to the unique coloration of the needles, which are covered in a waxy coating that gives them their blue hue. "Colorado Spruce" recognizes the plant's geographical origin, making this name not only descriptive of its appearance but also indicative of its regional heritage.

While other options like Black Hills Spruce, Silver Spruce, and Engelmann Spruce refer to different species or varieties within the spruce family, they do not apply to Picea pungens 'Glauca.' This specificity reinforces the accuracy of the common name as it relates to features and native habitat. Understanding these identifiers can aid in recognizing the plant in horticulture, landscaping, and ecological contexts.