Japanese Umbrella Pine

30-year old Specimen at NC Arboretum in Asheville

Japanese Umbrella Pine (Sciadopitys verticillata) is an evergreen (USDA hardiness zones 5b -9). It is not actually a pine and is more closely related to yew (Taxus).  

Historically, umbrella pines date back to the dinosaur age. This mid-sized landscape tree possesses several fine attributes: shiny leaves are arranged in whorls like the spokes of an umbrella; peeling, reddish brown bark and a conical habit.

To conifer collectors, umbrella pine is the premium prize for any private collection. A young tree may require training to develop a strong central leader. Dwarf cultivars (see below)  grow slowly, only 4-5 inches yearly.

Umbrella Pine prefers a moist, organically rich, well-drained, moderately acidic soil. Feed with a slow release organic fertilizer in early spring. Maintain a 2-3 inches layer of an organic mulch around the tree base. In the mid-South (zones 6 -7), the tree prefers one-half to full-day sunlight. Further south,  morning sunlight is preferred. Pruning needs are rare, mostly to maintain the tree's pyramidal form and to remove a broken limb or two in late winter. Disease and insect problems are rare.

In the early years umbrella pine is a slow grower. Eventually, it reaches 30 to 40 feet in height and 20 feet in spread. Well cared for tree forms may attain 70 feet or more in height. This unique conifer possesses stiff needles arranged in whorls resembling an upside-down umbrella. Branches often will withstand heavy snow and ice loads.

The Umbrella Pine is an evergreen prized for its striking foliage and superior pyramidal form. Needles rarely go off color in winter. Select forms are available at specialty conifer nurseries.
Here are four dwarf forms for small gardens:

'Aurea' - yellow needle foliage

‘Gruene Kugel’ - from Germany with a rounded habit when young, slowly develop into a small compact tree with glossy deep green foliage year-round.

‘Joe Kozey’ grows tall and exceptionally narrow at 20 feet high and only 6 feet wide; slow-growing, spire-like habit.

'Picola' - broad growing, 2- inch long dark green needles; ultra-dwarf selection 16- 20 inches tall after 10 years; rock garden plant.