Japanese Red Pine – Aka matsu
With a number of forms available, Pinus densiflora is a very useful landscaping tree that will grow well in full sun to a little shade. This is a tree that is not only valued for landscaping but also for the red timber.
It is one of the Japanese red Pines and is popular for using in rock gardens and indeed any Japanese style garden.
Varieties
- Pinus densiflora ‘Pendula’ is a weeping form, excellent in a rock garden or near a pond or waterfall.
- P. densiflora ‘Oculus-draconis’ is tall growing to around 20 metres.
- P. densiflora ‘Low Grow’ is a low growing variety that forms a mound.
- P. densiflora ‘Rainbow’ is a variegated form
- P. densiflora ‘Osmaston Compact’ is similar to ‘Low Glow’ however with a faster growth rate.
How To Grow The Japanese Red Pine – Basic Care and Growing Conditions.
Being both drought and frost tolerant this is also a long lived tree. It grows well in a range of soil types as long as they are well drained.
One planted and watered in, most pines will only require a little additional water through the first summer. A little much around the plant for the first few years can aid with growth.
Pruning
Generally not required although some varieties are trained to special forms.
Propagation
Propagation is usually from seed.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Pinus densiflora
- Common Name – Japanese red pine or Korean red pine.
- Family – Pinaceae
- Position – Full sun to a little shade.
- Soil – Well drained.
- Height – From low growing to around 20 metres depending on variety.
- Spread – To around 10 metres
- Growth rate – Medium to Slow
- Foliage – Mid green, typical pine needles.
- Flowers – Cones.
- Flowering time – Spring.
- Frost tolerant – Yes
- Drought tolerant – Yes once established
Pinus densiflora varieties are available for sale from good nurseries
