The Spruce Collection adjacent to the small trees and across Three-Mile Drive from the crabapples contain 124 specimens and 21 species of spruce. Spruce (Picea sp.) are distinguished from fir (Abies sp.) by their short, stiff needles. Spruce are evergreen, have conical form and for the most part are large trees. Along with arborvitae they are probably the most common evergreen planted in Minnesota. Some can be easily pruned into hedges. They are not easy to handle due to their spiky needles but make excellent barriers. They are also quite stunning in the winter landscape.