Of the 110 pine species, the Japanese Pines are the ones most commonly used. Being local to Japan, China and Korea. Japanese Pines have been used for centuries as ornamental trees and Bonsai.
Japanese Pines enjoy the full sun during the growing months and need to be "winterized" in Canada for our colder season. When not given enough sunlight, these Pines will grow longer needles, to maintain short needle growth, choose a location with full sun. Pines also do not like to be in moist soil. Similar to most Bonsai, a well-draining soil consisting mainly of non-organic substrate is ideal. (Boons Mix - 1/3 Akadama, 1/3 Pumice and 1/3 Lava Rock is highly recommended). Fertilization of the PInes is recommended during the whole growing season and even a little during the dormancy period.
The Japanese Pines most often found in Bonsai are:
-
Japanese Black Pine - Pinus Thunbergii
Growing on the coastal regions, the black pine grows beautiful needle leaves in clumps of two. It is also the hardiest of the pines, tolerating winds, storms, salt and water in its natural habitat. The Japanese Black Pine grows a dark, flaky bark and becomes more graceful and weathered with age. Specimens of this variety regularly sell at auctions for over USD 5000.
If it's a coniferous outdoor tree you are after, look no further than the Japanese Black Pine.
-
Japanese White Pine - Pinus Parviflora
The Japanese White Pine only grows one flush a year, unlike the Black & Red pines, which grow two. So Artists need to be careful not to prune too much off the Bonsai. Making this a great slow-growing specimen. The Japanese White Pine is a little more susceptible to infections and disease and must be monitored regularly. Its natural movement in the trunk and beautiful needle clusters make this a very rewarding Bonsai.
-
Japanese Red Pine - Pinus Densiflora
Similar growth patterns to the Black Pine, but with more delicate and slender growth. This Pine is similar to the Scots Pine. Although very common in Asia, the Japanese Red Pine is not commonly used in North American Bonsai design. As such, it is not often grown in nurseries around Canada and the US, making it a little harder to find.
These are not seeds - But Actual Bonsai Tree
Please see our Choosing a Bonsai page, for the age and dimensions regarding the different stages of our Bonsai (Baby, Young, & Mature).
