Species Japanese red pine
dark-green foliage on dark-brown branches

Japanese red pine

Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow'

Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow') is an ornamental evergreen tree with striking red-orange needles and an attractive, low-growing habit. Its growth habit allows for use as a focal point in a garden or landscape when planted alone, as part of a screen planting, or at the back of a border. The needles are abundant and densely held giving the tree a unique look. It is an easy to grow conifer that is drought tolerant and salt tolerant, making it a great choice for sunny and coastal locations. Its moderate growth rate, mature size of 15-25ft, and vivid color provide a beautiful addition to gardens year-round.

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

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow') should be watered moderately and regularly. During the growing season (typically spring and summer) water young Japanese red pine trees at least once a week, providing 1-2 inches of water to the root system. During the fall and winter months, reduce watering to once every 2 weeks, or even once a month if weather is particularly dry. Make sure your plant receives additional water if temperatures are hot or the soil stays dry for an extended period of time. Be sure to water around the base of the tree, not the trunk.

sunlight

Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow') grows best in direct sunlight and should receive a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight each day. It is not a recommended species for shaded areas. During the summer, this species can tolerate more sunlight, as long as it is given adequate protection from the hottest midday sun. During the winter, this species may benefit from some protection from the coldest afternoon sun. As with all plants, moderation is key. To ensure the health of Japanese red pine, it is important to provide it with an adequate amount of indirect light throughout the day as well.

pruning

Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow') should be pruned in late winter or early spring. Pruning should focus on removing dead stems and branches, thinning out overly dense branches, and removing any crossing branches. When pruning this species, use sharp pruning shears and always cut transversely, or straight across the branch. Be sure to remove no more than 25-30% of the live tissue on the tree at any 1 time. When pruning, aim to create a shape that resembles that of an inverted cone. This will help give the tree structure and encourage new growth.

Season

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

Pinus densiflora 'Low Glow' typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map