Striking medium-size tree that rarely grows over 10 to 12 m in culture, but in nature can easily reach 30 m. Initially the crown is pyramidal but it becomes broader when older. The tree has two types of needles. Quite inconspicuous, small scaly needles are pressed closely against the twigs. The 10 - 13 cm, lustrous dark green, soft needles are more conspicuous. These actually consist of two needles that have grown into each other along their length. They are arranged in whorls around the branches, it is to this that the tree owes its name Umbrella pine. The oval cones are dark green and turn brown when ripening. The old bark flakes off in long strips revealing the reddish brown bast. The tree grows on any soil provided it is fertile, quite moist and preferably neutral to light acidic. When young this tree should be protected against severe frost.