The Red Spruce, part of the Pine family, is found along the east coast of North America. It tends to grow in land that has little water. It often grows at high altitudes. The Red Spruce is 18.3 meters to 24.4 meters (60 feet to 80 feet) high, although in warmer climates it grows higher. The trunk is usually around 61 centimeters (2 feet) wide.
The Red Spruce is covered by yellow-green needles that are about 3.8 centimeters (1 1/2 inches) long. These needles are curved and blunt. It usually tickles when you are poked with one. Unlike leaves, these needles stay on the tree for about six years. That means that unlike other trees, the Red Spruce has its leaves or needles all year long, while other trees lose theirs every fall.
The Red Spruce's seeds are commonly referred to as cones. They change from a purplish or light green in the spring to a glossy reddish brown when they are ready to disperse. The cones have scales. This is a Red Spruce seed:
How do you think the Red Spruce disperses its seeds?
By Animal
Nice try, but the Red Spruce does not use animals to disperse its seeds. The cone is too large for most animals to carry. Here's a hint: The Red Spruce grows in a variety of climates, but mainly in drier areas of land.
By Wind
Correct. The Red Spruce disperses its seeds by using the air. Although the cones are too heavy to travel long distances, the wind blows the cone off of the parent tree and carries it a short distance until it is planted.
By Water
Sorry. Remember that the Red Spruce grows in areas with little water. Here's a hint: Think about the size and shape of the cones.
Try Again
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