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Look for: Brush-like tufts at the end of branches, darker gray/scaley on old trunks
Origin: Japan/Korea
Japanese White Pine is a small, graceful looking tree that develops a flat-topped, spreading crown. It reaches heights of 20 to 40 feet and creates a striking landscape element wherever it is used. Often-twisted, green needles (each to 3” long) in bundles of five appear in dense tufts primarily at the branch ends. Needles are white on the interior surfaces. Oval reddish-brown cones (2-3” long) appear solitary or in small clusters, remaining on the tree for up to seven years. Plants prefer cool summer climates and dislike the heat and humidity of the deep South.
Japanese White Pine is considered by many to be the quintessential species for classic bonsai. Due to its slow growth rate, this species is an excellent choice for many small, residential landscapes.
USDA Zones 5-7