Japanese Umbrella Pine Tree

Japanese umbrella pine is a slow-growing evergreen conifer with whorls of dark green needles and a distinctive, broadly pyramidal outline. Native to Japan, it makes a long-lived specimen tree for gardens with room for its mature spread. ## Size and placement North Carolina State Extension gives cultivated trees a typical size of about 25–30 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide, while larger specimens can grow substantially bigger. The tree grows in full sun and benefits from afternoon shade in hot summers; protect it from harsh winter winds. ## Soil and water Plant in rich, moist, well-drained soil with organic matter and slightly acidic conditions. Avoid heavy clay and keep the root zone from drying during drought, when supplemental irrigation is important. ## Maintenance Growth is slow, and the species has no serious insect or disease problems. Its unusual whorled foliage and year-round bark and leaves make it a useful focal point in a rock garden, foundation planting, container, or bonsai display. [NC State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/sciadopitys-verticillata/) · [Virginia Tech Extension](https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/content/pubs_ext_vt_edu/en/HORT/HORT-29/HORT-29.html)