Sciadopitys verticillata (Umbrella Pine)

Sciadopitys verticillata (Umbrella Pine) is a very slow-growing evergreen conifer of spire-like to broadly pyramidal habit. Branching is dense and heavy with a lush foliage of thick, heavy, fleshy, rich glossy green leaves, 2-5 in. long (5-12 cm). They grow in dense whorls of 10-30 at the shoot nodes and persist 3 to 4 years on the tree before being shed. Radiating outward, they are somewhat reminiscent of the spokes of open umbrellas, hence the common name. Ovoid, upright cones, 4 in. long (10 cm), emerge green in the first year, ripening to dark brown 18 to 20 months after pollination. The bark on mature specimens is thick, soft, red-brown and exfoliates in plates and strips. Great as a specimen or in a border.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 25-30 ft. tall (7-9 m) and 15-20 ft. wide (4-6 m).
• Performs best in full sun in rich, slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soils and sheltered from strong winds. Best in cool summer climates, and will appreciate some afternoon shade in hot summer climates.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• No pruning required. Will need training to maintain a central leader
• Propagate by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Native to Japan.