What is the common name of the tree species Picea sitchensis?

The common name of Picea sitchensis is Sitka spruce.

Sitka spruce is a large, evergreen conifer native to the Pacific coast of North America. Its range runs from Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula south through coastal British Columbia and Washington to northern California, where it is strongly associated with temperate rainforests.

The name “Sitka” comes from Sitka in southeast Alaska, one of the places where the species grows naturally. It is the largest species of spruce and can exceed 100 meters in height, making it one of the world’s tallest conifers.

Sitka spruce is sometimes confused with Norway spruce or white spruce because all are members of the genus Picea. Unlike those more familiar species, however, Sitka spruce is especially adapted to cool, wet coastal environments and salty ocean spray. Its lightweight, resonant wood has also been valued for aircraft, instruments, and construction.