Species Japanese red pine
Dense, rounded shape tree with yellow-green crown and brown stems

Japanese red pine

Pinus densiflora

Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora) is an evergreen tree native to Japan, Korea and North-Eastern China. It has a distinctive pyramidal growth habit, growing up to 25 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to one meter. Its long, dark green needles and reddish-brown bark make it an attractive ornamental tree in parks and gardens. Japanese red pine is quite hardy and can tolerate both hot and cold climates as well as poor soil conditions. It is a popular species in bonsai cultivation and is also used for timber production.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Well-drained

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese red pine should be watered roughly every 5-7 days, depending on the season and the size of the plant. During warmer months (May-September), it is best to increase the frequency of watering to around every 5 days, providing the plant with enough water to stay hydrated. In the cooler months (October-April), you can increase the interval between watering sessions to around 7 days, as the plant will need less water. When watering, be sure to give the soil a thorough drenching to ensure that the plant is getting enough moisture throughout the entire root system. Water slowly and evenly to prevent water runoff, and don’t forget to check for spots that may require extra attention. Lastly, make sure the soil is draining well, and don’t forget to check for root rot.

sunlight

Japanese red pine prefers full sun exposure or at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best temperatures for the plant to thrive are around 65-80 °F (18-27°C). During the growing season, Japanese red pine will require additional water, but it can tolerate dry periods for a few weeks in summer and autumn.

pruning

Japanese red pine should be pruned in early spring, before the new growth begins. During this time, it is important to remove any dead, diseased, or broken branches. Branches that are crossing, growing inwards, or too close to the center should also be removed. It is also important to carefully thin out the canopy of the tree to improve air circulation. The goal is to retain the shape of the tree and rejuvenate it by encouraging new shoots to grow. With regular pruning, the Japanese red pine can remain healthy and vigorous.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Pinus densiflora typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map