PINUS thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’

Description

PINUS thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’ grows slowly. As a result, this Japanese black pine will not exceed 2 m after around twenty years (see the example in our photo). Eventually, it grows as tall as it is wide. As it ages, it almost resembles a teddy bear with its round shape.
The dark green needles accumulate very densely around its branches.
Then, at the beginning of spring, when the young shoots begin to grow, these 10 to 15 cm candles are a light gray or even white tone. They then stand out well on the fairly long dark green needles.

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How to plant and care for PINUS thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’?

Plant this Japanese black pine in a location in full sun or partial shade. It will do well in light, normal or heavy soil with an acidic, neutral or calcareous pH. The location can be moderately humid or dry.
Given its reduced volume, you can install it in a flower bed. If you keep it in a pot, its development will be even less.

For a good preparation of the pot or ground, we have designed specific instructions available here. Furthermore, discover here how to water your garden and save water.

History and Origin

The type species PINUS thunbergii has its origins in the coastal areas of Japan and South Korea. It is considered endangered in its natural habitat.

PINUS thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’ can almost be considered a dwarf, knowing that the type species can reach a height of 40 meters.

P. thunbergii are very resistant to pollution and salt.

Furthermore, in Japan, P. thunbergii are also grown in Niwaki (“garden trees”). It is one of the classic subjects for bonsai.

In addition, the wood is used to manufacture posts, railway balls, fences and even pallets. In addition, needles are used in Korea for making biscuits and medicinal drinks.

Finally, P. thunbergii is the second most planted conifer in Japan after CRYPTOMERIA japonica.