Picea Machala

Picea mariorika x Machala is a hybrid spruce with poor development and slow growth. It is distinguished by its initially globular habit, eventually forming a magnificent spread-out pyramidal dome, and its foliage of an exceptional blue-silver colour. Its slightly unkempt branches resemble dense little brushes. Its fluffy silhouette will appeal in small gardens and large rock gardens, enhanced by the splendour of its foliage. It is a very hardy small conifer, not demanding in cool climates, appreciating well-drained soils and a sunny exposure.

Obtained in the former Czech Republic in 1971, Picea mariorika x 'Machala' is a plant of the Pinaceae family resulting from cross-breeding between Picea mariana, also known as Black Spruce, native to the northeast of the United States, and Picea omorika, native to Bosnia and Serbia. In their natural environment, which is often very harsh, these two species reach respectable dimensions and generally have a pyramidal habit.

The mariorika x 'Machala' variety is a compact and bushy dwarf conifer, which after many years forms a dome a little wider than it is tall. Its growth is slow, about 7 cm (2.8 in) per year. At 10 years old, it will reach 80 cm (31.5 in) in height and 1.2 m (3 ft 11 in) in spread. It produces thin and very dense branches, arranged in regular spirals. They are covered with short, narrow needles that are soft to the touch and arranged in dense brushes, and which give off an aromatic (resin) smell. On their lower side, there are 2 silver-white bands inherited from its parent, Picea omorika. They are covered with a white wax responsible in part for the magnificent reflections of the foliage. Its pale blue young shoots harmonise with the older foliage, which has an intermediate colour between grey-blue and green-grey.

The dwarf mariorika spruce deserves to be discovered and planted more in gardens. With its exceptional foliage, very reduced development, low maintenance, and ease of cultivation, it is a perfect plant for large rock gardens and terraces. It thrives in many situations and adapts to various climates, as long as the soil is well drained and not too chalky. A copper or mauve mulch installed at its base will highlight its exceptional colour. This globular plant goes well with large stones, geometric lines, and masonry works. It can be combined with dwarf conifers with prostrate (Juniperus horizontalis Blue Chip), columnar, or pyramidal habits. The true visual qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden, which prefers the aesthetics of shapes, silhouettes, and textures over the dance of blooms. These plants, with their reassuring permanence, structurally define a bed, mark pathways and border terraces, easily substituting for the strong presence of trimmed boxwood or holly. They go well with heathers or ground cover plants such as aubrietas, ceraistes or shrubby salvias, as well as flowering shrubs. The key is to play with volumes and colours.