PLANT OF THE MONTH
October, 2008
Plant of the Month Feature
by Joyce Ollie
Arboretum Roots Board Member
Picea Pungens
'Fat Albert'
Colorado Spruce
"Hey, hey, hey!" was the trademark call of Fat Albert, a Bill Cosby cartoon character. And when you see the blue spruce named Fat Albert, you might be saying, "Hey, that's really blue!" or "Hey, I'd like one of those in my yard!"
'Fat Albert' was introduced by Iseli Nursery of Oregon in 1978. It was originally spotted in a field of spruce, a natural hybridization. After watching the plant's growth habits, hardiness, color and strength, it was deemed that full production was warranted. The tree was grafted, so our 'Fat Albert' looks a lot like that original tree.
'Fat Alberts' have a pyramidal shape and are slow growers. Nurseries advertising 'Fat Alberts' do not agree on how tall the tree will grow -- some say 15 feet, others say 30 to 40 feet tall. They do agree on its compact, blocky 10 to 20 feet wide. Perhaps that is why it is called 'Fat Albert,' and it's a name that easily remembered. Our 'Fat Albert,' according to David Horst, is the largest he's seen in the area, possibly a tribute to the rich soil at the arboretum. It was planted in 1971.
Because they are grafted, they all have the same wonderful steel blue color. Wouldn't a grouping of 'Fat Alberts' be stunning?
Why did I choose to write about 'Fat Albert' in October, when I could have chosen a deciduous tree that will dazzle us with color this month? I chose it because I have admired it for years, in all seasons. Planted as a backdrop for the herb garden and a screen for the driveway, it is a focal point for me every time I walk the path to the Education Center.
I have much admiration for all conifers for their adaptability to drought and low temperatures. Conifers evolved in northern latitudes to withstand very harsh conditions. Winters are not only cold, but actually are as arid as deserts. The blue spruce is said to be the most drought tolerant of the spruces. 'Fat Albert' is hardy to temperatures of 40-50 degrees below zero.
So the next time you visit the Arboretum, say hello to 'Fat Albert' with a hearty "Hey, hey, hey!"
About the author: Joyce Ollie is a retired special education teacher who enjoys gardening and observing nature. She is a member of the Roots Board and volunteers at the Arboretum by giving tours and planning programs. The Bickelhaupt Arboretum is fortunate to have Joyce on its Roots Board.