code: 5059
This very showy pine has an open habit, similar to that of Pinus parviflora ‘Glauca,’ but its blue-green needles, in tight bundles, are shorter and have more of an upward curve to them. Many persistent cones decorate the tall, moderately narrow tree.
Hardy to -20°F
Landscape Attributes
Short-Needled Japanese Blue Pine is a dense evergreen tree with a strong central leader and a more or less rounded form. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.
This is a relatively low maintenance tree. When pruning is necessary, it is recommended to only trim back the new growth of the current season, other than to remove any dieback. It has no significant negative characteristics.
Short-Needled Japanese Blue Pine is recommended for the following landscape applications;
- Accent
- Shade
Planting & Growing
Short-Needled Japanese Blue Pine will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 100 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations!
This tree should only be grown in full sunlight. It prefers dry to average moisture levels with very well-drained soil, and will often die in standing water. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. It is not particular as to soil type or pH, and is able to handle environmental salt. It is somewhat tolerant of urban pollution. This is a selected variety of a species not originally from North America.
Information:
Maximum Elevation: 6,000 Feet
Mature Size (generic) : TREE (30-50′ Tall) • Average Width
USDA Hardiness Zone : 5, 6, 7
Water Needs : Moderate
Light Needs : Full Sun
Growth Rate : Moderate
Mature Height : 30-40 ft. (Grows 12-15 inches per year.)
Mature Width : 30-40 ft. (Usually more wide than tall at maturity. Narrow in youth.)
Name : Japanese Blue Short-Needled Pine
