Thunderhead Pine

The Thunderhead Pine is a dramatic small tree, growing to 15 feet tall and 20 feet wide in the first 10 years. It has a dark, brooding look from its exceptionally dark-green needles, and the silvery white winter buds and spring shoots make a dramatic contrast with them. The bark is deeply furrowed and gray-black, and this tree is a powerful specimen in any garden. The horizontal branches will grow across the ground if left untrimmed, making it ideal for slopes and on the top of walls. Its salt resistance makes it perfect for coastal gardens, and no Asian-style garden can be without this tree, a special form of the Japanese pine.

• Dense, spreading small evergreen tree
• Striking dark green long needles
• Dramatic white winter buds and spring growth
• Highly salt-resistant for coastal gardens
• Essential addition to Asian-styled gardens

Growing well in zones 6 to 9, the Thunderhead Pine will also grow in zone 5, although perhaps with some needle burn. It thrives in sandy soils, and it should not be grown in heavy, wet ground. Plant in full sun, and once established this is a very drought tolerant tree. Careful planting will keep it disease-free, and pests are normally not a problem. This tree can be pruned and trained, or left to grow naturally, depending on your needs, and it will grow right at the edge of the ocean.