This section is from "The Horticulturist, And Journal Of Rural Art And Rural Taste", by P. Barry, A. J. Downing, J. Jay Smith, Peter B. Mead, F. W. Woodward, Henry T. Williams. Also available from Amazon: Horticulturist and Journal of Rural Art and Rural Taste.
This very distinct species has proved perfectly hardy in this region as well as farther north; this, however, may be expected from the high latitude whence it comes on our northwestern coast Though not as graceful as some other species, it is very distinct and striking. The foliage has a pretty glaucus hue, and all lovers of Conifers should plant it.
This species was named in honor of A. Menzies, Esq., who had previous to Douglas travelled over a great part of the northwest coast of America, and had discovered this and many other interesting plants. Douglas found it in North California, and describes it as famishing a useful kind of timber.

Manzies' Spruce appears to thrive best in situations where the soil is moist for the greater part of the year; in low bottoms, not absolutely flooded, with a moist atmosphere, it grows extremely fast. It is likewise found to thrive well in Scotland, and of course in our northern and central regions; on the most exposed moors, it never suffers, but, on the contrary, the peaty soil and humid atmosphere appear favorable to its growth. On dry soils it frequently loses a portion of its leaves during the dry weather, and this gives it a shabby appearance and has led some to condemn it. In such situations it should be liberally supplied with water during the growing season.
 
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