Japanese Red Pine is perhaps the most common tree growing in Japan. It will soar to 100 feet in the wild, but in cultivation is more likely to top out at 40 to 60 feet tall. In its early years, this is a medium growing pine (to 12 inches per year). It is noted for its irregular but frequently graceful form and its orange-red bark. Often multi-trunked at the base, this tree features a broad-rounded shape, horizontally spreading branching and a somewhat flattened mature crown. Trunks often lean. Bark matures to gray-fissured at the base. Bright green needles to 3 to 5 inches long appear in bundles of two. Oval to oblong cones to 2 inches long are often plentiful. Common name is in reference to the attractive orange-red bark that exfoliates with age. It is much used for bonsai and in the landscape for its appealing form; prefers well-drained, slightly acid soil. Needles may turn yellowish during winter on some soils.
