Variations
var. balfouriana Balfour Spuce
This coniferous tree varies from the species by having a narrow pointed apex with slightly pendulous branches with short grey needle-like foliage.

var. montigena
This coniferous tree varies from the species with densely pubescent one-year-old branchlets and the linear leaves have 1-4 stomatic bands on each surface. The cones are up to 90 mm (3˝ in) long with greenish seed scales that are tinged reddish purple along the margins.

It is naturally found in western Sichuan growing in the mountains at an altitude of 3300 m (10,000 ft) and is regarded as endangered. It has been widely exploited for it is useful timber and continued unchecked harvesting has reduced its population.

Cultivar
'Purpurea'
This tall coniferous tree forms a narrow pointed conical habit with a horizontal to slightly ascending branches with dark green needle-like foliage and produces violet purple young cones. It grows in USDA zones 6-8