Umbrella Pine

(Sciadopitys verticillata)

August 1996

Summary:

Foliage: Evergreen needles
Height: 20 to 30 feet
Spread: 15 to 20 feet
Shape: Upright

Umbrella pine has scale-like needles along stems, as well as whorls of flattened needles around the stems which give the plant an umbrella effect.

Plant Needs:

Zone: 5 to 8
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet to moist
Soil Type: Sandy or loam
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 a location that will be protected from winter wind and hot afternoon sun.
Plant in rich, moist, acid soil.

Care:

Maintain mulch under the plant throughout the year.
Little other maintenance is required.

Problems:

No serious insects and diseases.

Alternatives:

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

Cultivars of SCIADOPITYS VERTICILLATA:
No important cultivars.

Comments:

Umbrella Pine is a very slow growing plant that is best used as a specimen because of its unique beauty and dense pyramidal shape.
Avoid hot, dry locations in the Tidewater area.

Additional Materials:

The following Extension publications are available through your local Extension office or directly from: Virginia Tech Extension Distribution Center 112 Landsdowne St. Blacksburg, VA 24061
#426-500 "Winter Injury to Trees and Shrubs"
#426-604 "Selecting Landscape Plants - Rare and Unusual Trees"

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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