Gold Coin Scotch Pine

‘Gold Coin’ brings a strong seasonal color change to Scots pine: its needles turn brilliant gold in winter and fade to pale green in summer. The [American Conifer Society](https://conifersociety.org/conifers/pinus-sylvestris-gold-coin/) describes an upright tree-form selection, while the [Royal Horticultural Society](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/66741/pinus-sylvestris-gold-coin/details) profiles a slow-growing rounded shrub. ## Seasonal color and form The sources report different mature sizes. The American Conifer Society gives about 12 by 8 ft after ten years; the RHS lists 1–1.5 m after 20–50 years. The [Chicago Botanic Garden](https://www.chicagobotanic.org/plant-information/plant-finder/pinus-sylvestris-gold-coin-scots-pine) describes a broad pyramidal form and records a separate garden specimen. These reports indicate substantial variation in growth conditions or recorded form, so plan with room and use the source range most relevant to the site. The RHS and Chicago Botanic Garden recommend full sun. ## Growing conditions Gold Coin is evergreen and offers both summer foliage color and bright winter gold. The RHS recommends well-drained chalk, clay, loam, or sandy soil and gives an H7 rating on its own scale; the Chicago Botanic Garden lists USDA zones 3–7. Its seasonal foliage makes it a useful specimen where the winter color can be seen. ## Maintenance Provide full sun and good drainage. The RHS reports no pruning required, while the American Conifer Society notes that the selection responds to pruning when a smaller outline is desired. Check its natural shape before pruning and avoid removing more growth than needed.