Japanese Black Pine

(Pinus thunbergiana)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen needles
Height: 20 to 80 feet
Spread: 20 to 40 feet
Shape: Spreading

Stiff, dark-green needles (3 to 5 inches long) occur in pairs. Large, grayish-white terminal buds help distinguish it from most other pines.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 4 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Moist to dry
Soil Type: Sandy, loam, or clay
pH Range: 3.7 to 6.0

Functions:

Suggested uses for this plant include specimen plant.

Planting Notes:

Plant trees that have balled and burlapped roots.
Plant in full sun when possible.
Salt tolerant.
Prefers acid soil, but tolerant of wide variety of soil conditions.

Care:

Easy to maintain.
Because of its natural, informal growth habit, it doesn't require pruning.

Problems:

No serious pests.

Alternatives:

Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of PINUS THUNBERGIANA:
`Oculus-draconis' has leaves striped with two yellow bands.

Comments:

The use of Japanese Black Pine has increased in recent years due to its appealing, ornamental form created by an irregular growth habit.
Good for use near the seashore because of its tolerance to sea spray.
Suitable for bonsai.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publication is available through your local Extension office or directly from: Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne Street Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-601 "The Art of Bonsai"
#426-605 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Conifers"

This material was developed by Carol Ness as part of the Interactive Design and Development Project funded by the Kellogg Foundation. Mary Miller, Project Director. Diane Relf, Content Specialist, Horticulture. Copyright 1989 by VCE.

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