Species Chinese pine
Low-growing, spreading flattened gray branches covered in dense, long, dark green needles

Chinese pine

Pinus tabuliformis

Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis) is a species of hardy coniferous evergreen tree native to northern China. Its bark is reddish-brown, and its needles are a bluish-green. Its cones are spherical-shaped and can reach up to 8 cm in length. It is moderately resistant to drought and prefers full sun. Its growth rate is slow to medium, and it can reach heights of up to 25 m. Its tight branching pattern and twisty bark provide an attractive staple to any landscape. Chinese pine is an easy to care for plant, making it a great choice for the casual gardener.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

5 - 7

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Cones:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Chinese pine should be watered once every 2-3 days, depending on the level of humidity in the environment. Make sure to check the soil surrounding the plant before adding water: if the top layer of soil is dry, then it is likely that the plant needs to be watered. Before adding water, it is important to ensure that the water has been allowed to settle, as newly drawn tap water may contain harmful chemicals. Approximate amount of water needed for this plant is 1-2 liters of water per plant every 2 to 3 days.

sunlight

Chinese pine, or Pinus tabuliformis, requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. In its native environment, this species of pine tree grows best on high mountains or in sunny valleys, so a sunny location is essential for successful cultivation. This species of pine prefers full sun exposure, with more shade on exceptionally hot days. The trees can also benefit from exposure to indirect sunlight. Additionally, the trees prefer moist, well-drained soils. Watering deeply during dry periods will help keep the trees healthy.

pruning

Chinese pine should be pruned in late winter (January to March) when the tree is fully dormant. This species benefits from selective pruning and thinning to open up lower branches and encourage lateral branching. Dead, diseased, and weak or broken limbs should be removed to increase the tree’s vigor. Cuts should be made just outside the branch collar, and no more than 1-third of the tree's live foliage should be removed in any given year.

Season

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

Pinus tabuliformis typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map