JAPANESE BLACK PINE Pinus thunbergii
Pinus thunbergii, also called black pine, Japanese black pine, and Japanese pine, is an East Asian pine native to coastal areas of Japan and South Korea. Because of its resistance to pollution and salt, it is a popular horticultural tree. In Japan it is widely used as a garden tree both trained as Niwaki and untrained growing as an overstory tree. The trunks and branches are trained from a young age to be elegant and interesting to view. It is one of the classic bonsai subjects.
These plants are sometimes used for bonsai, though they can be grown as a regular full-sized tree. If growing as a Bonsai, we are offering our Bonsai growing instruction booklet as an option with your seeds. It contains full-colour images and detailed information about germinating, growing, pruning and potting your new bonsai! It is the same booklet that is offered in our bonsai kit.
Hardiness zones: 5-8
Location: Sun or part sun
Seeds per pack: 5
Germination: Soak in water for 24 hours. Plant 2-3 seeds in each pot, just under the surface of a seed-start mix. Water, and cold stratify for 60 days (a refrigerator works well). If you are starting your seeds during the cool weather, the pots can be placed in a cold garage. Once the cold period is completed, place the pots in a warm, sunny spot. You should see the first sign of germination within the next few days or weeks, depending on the variety. Generally a 10-60 day range is normal for the first signs of growth. When the seedlings are about 5cm (2") tall, remove any additional plants and leave only the strongest seedling in each pot. The removed seedlings can be planted in a garden or elsewhere if desired.
