Discover the enchanting allure of Sciadopitys verticillata, commonly known as Japanese Umbrella Pine, a truly unique specimen for your landscape. Revered for its striking aesthetic, this evergreen conifer showcases whorls of 20-30 soft, dark green needles that radiate outwards from branchlets, evoking the appearance of an open umbrella. Native to Japan, Japanese Umbrella Pine can soar to 90 feet in its homeland, though in U.S. cultivation, it typically reaches a more modest height of 25-30 feet. The tree’s slow growth, reaching just 4-5 feet in the first decade, means it will gracefully adorn your garden for years to come.
Ideal for moist, rich, slightly acidic soils, this pine thrives in full sun and cool summers. It's important to shelter it from harsh winter winds, particularly in USDA Zone 5. With its notable reddish-brown exfoliating bark hidden beneath dense foliage, this tree is a conversation starter. Perfect as a standalone specimen, in rock gardens, or even as a bonsai, Sciadopitys verticillata offers both versatility and distinctive beauty, making it a prized addition to any garden setting.
