Goyō matsu – The Japanese White Pine

Pinus parviflora is commonly known as a five-needle pine as the needles appear in bunches of five . The ‘White Pine’ name comes from its bluish needles, which have a white band that gives them an almost silvery tint.
This is a tree that grows in mountainous areas, in its natural environment, iterates colder conditions than name other pines and it can reach around 25m in height yet it is in bonsai that it is popular because the needle structure makes it easier to work with.
The foliage and the long lasting cones along with a often multi trunked growth habit make this an interesting addition to many gardens.
The bark is gray and fairly smooth and this helps distinguish it from the Japanese Black Pines and Red Pines
Varieties
Pinus parviflora ‘Hatsukasa’
Pinus parviflora ‘Hatsukasa’ is a compact, dwarf variety of the Japanese White Pine, well-known for its dense, slow-growing habit. It forms a rounded shrub that typically reaches no more than one meter in height within 10-12 years. The plant is highly prized for its striking blue-grey needles, which create an elegant contrast against its tidy, symmetrical form. The foliage has a soft, almost silvery appearance, which remains attractive year-round. One of the standout features of ‘Hatsukasa’ is its ability to produce cones at an exceptionally young age, making it a favorite among bonsai enthusiasts.
Uses
This cultivar is ideal for smaller landscapes, rock gardens, or as an ornamental specimen in Japanese style gardens. Its compact size and slow growth make it suitable for container planting, especially in urban environments where space is limited. Additionally, it is used in bonsai cultivation due to its manageable size and unique cone production.
Soil
Pinus parviflora ‘Hatsukasa’ thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter, providing adequate moisture without becoming waterlogged. The plant tolerates a variety of soil types, as long as they offer good drainage.
Temperature
This cultivar is hardy in Cool Temperate to Warm Temperate Zones so USDA zones 5-8, preferring cool to moderate climates. While it can tolerate some frost, extreme cold conditions can cause damage, especially to the younger plants. In warmer climates, it may require some afternoon shade to prevent scorching of the needles.
Pinus parviflora ‘Glauca’
Pinus parviflora ‘Glauca’ is a larger variety of the Japanese White Pine, forming an architectural shrub or small tree with a distinctively upright habit. It is most notable for its bright blue foliage, which sets it apart from other pine varieties. Over time, it develops a tall, elegant shape that makes it an eye-catching focal point in the garden. The soft, finely-textured needles are a silvery-blue color, lending the plant a graceful appearance throughout the year. This cultivar can grow up to 15 feet or more, depending on its growing conditions.
Uses
This variety is popular in large gardens and landscapes where space is available for its full development. It can serve as a specimen tree or be incorporated into mixed plantings, particularly in Asian-inspired gardens or modern landscapes. The striking blue color of the foliage makes it a favorite in both formal and informal settings. It also works well as a privacy screen or windbreak due to its dense, upright growth.
Soil
Pinus parviflora ‘Glauca’ prefers well-draining, acidic to neutral soil, with a slightly sandy texture. It thrives in soils that retain some moisture but are not overly wet. It will also benefit from an occasional addition of organic matter, such as compost, to ensure good root development and overall plant health.
Temperature
This cultivar thrives in Cool Temperate to Warm Temperate Zones so USDA hardiness zones 4-8. It is relatively cold-hardy and can tolerate frost, but extreme heat should be avoided. In warmer climates, it may require some protection from the hottest afternoon sun. It performs best in climates with cool winters and moderate summers, where it will grow vigorously and maintain its striking blue foliage.
Pinus parviflora ‘Fukai’
Pinus parviflora ‘Fukai’ is an intermediate-growing, broadly upright form of Japanese White Pine, notable for its stunning creamy-gold banding on new growth. As the needles mature, they gradually fade to a rich green, creating a striking two-tone effect that adds visual interest to the plant. The tree develops a dense, conical shape and can reach heights of 10 to 15 feet over time. Its overall growth habit is strong and upright, and it maintains a tidy, symmetrical appearance. ‘Fukai’ is often chosen for its unique needle coloration and graceful form.
Uses
This cultivar is often used as an ornamental tree in larger gardens, landscapes, and parks. Due to its upright growth and eye-catching foliage, it can function as a focal point or specimen tree. ‘Fukai’ is also ideal for planting in groupings, creating visual interest when paired with other evergreens or deciduous plants. It can be used in Japanese-style gardens or as a striking accent in modern, minimalist landscapes.
Soil
Pinus parviflora ‘Fukai’ prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It does well in sandy loam or loamy soil types that provide good aeration and moisture retention. Like other Japanese pines, it requires soil that does not retain excessive moisture, as this can lead to root rot.
Temperature
This variety is hardy in Cool Temperate to Warm Temperate Zones so, USDA zones 5-8, thriving in climates with cold winters and moderate summers. It can withstand light frost, but excessive cold or hot, dry conditions can be detrimental. Ideal growing conditions are those with consistent moisture and cool to moderate temperatures. In hot regions, ‘Fukai’ may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Pinus parviflora ‘Koko-no-E’
Pinus parviflora ‘Koko-no-E’ is a compact, upright cultivar of Japanese White Pine. Known for its beautifully tiered branch structure, ‘Koko-no-E’ exhibits a distinct, layered growth pattern that gives it a refined, bonsai-like appearance, even when grown in the ground. The foliage consists of soft, blue-green needles that create a harmonious contrast with the tree’s orderly branches. Typically, it remains under 4 feet in height, making it perfect for small spaces, rock gardens, or container planting. Over time, it forms a visually striking mound, contributing a unique architectural element to any garden.
Uses
This cultivar is commonly used in smaller gardens, bonsai displays, and as an ornamental shrub. Its compact size and intricate branch structure make it an excellent choice for Japanese-style gardens or landscapes with limited space. It is also popular in container planting, where its unique shape can be admired from all angles. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for adding texture and visual interest to rock gardens or formal hedges.
Soil
Pinus parviflora ‘Koko-no-E’ thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. It prefers sandy or loamy soils with good aeration to ensure healthy root development. Like most pines, it does not tolerate overly wet or heavy soils, and good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. The plant will benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
Temperature
This cultivar is hardy in Cool Temperate to Warm Temperate Zones so USDA zones 5-8, meaning it tolerates cold winters but is sensitive to extreme heat. It is best grown in areas with cool to moderate temperatures and adequate moisture. In warmer climates, ‘Koko-no-E’ may need some afternoon shade to protect its delicate foliage from scorching. It thrives in areas with a balance of sun and shade, and is relatively cold-hardy once established.