Great Design Plant: Pinus Thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’

Pines, like red wine, can be an acquired taste. Many of us played in pine forests as children, never giving a thought as to what makes these trees special. But there are certain pines that can do for your garden what no other plant can do: They can provide unmatched structure, texture and interest; they can also introduce a theme into a generic garden space. One pine accepts the challenge of meeting these criteria, and does so with style. Meet Thunderhead Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergi ‘Thunderhead’).

Botanical name: Pinus thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’
Common names: Thunderhead pine, Thunderhead Japanese black pine
Origin: Japan
Where it will grow: Hardy to -20 degrees Fahrenheit (USDA zones 5 to 10; find your zone)
Light requirement: Full sun is ideal but will accept partial shade
Water requirement: Average (1 inch of water per week)
Mature size: Slow growing to 10 feet tall and up to 15 feet wide

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Benefits and tolerances: Resistant to deer, rabbits and some urban pollution; well behaved; drought tolerant once established
Seasonal interest: New growth appears as silver candles in spring; year-round dark green foliage with excellent structure
When to plant. Spring or fall is preferable.


Distinguishing traits. Thunderhead is a shrubby, compact form of the larger Japanese black pine. Thick tufts of longish needles top its branches, giving this tree the appearance of a thunderhead cloud, hence its name.


How to use it. Thunderhead pine is useful when an evergreen year-round focal point is needed. Its smaller size makes it a perfect choice for urban gardens. It is traditionally used in Asian-themed gardens, like the one in this photo, because of its presence and the fact that it is easily pruned and shaped. The tree shown here is over 40 years old. Its sculptural quality makes this pine a perfect garden mate for boulders.

To control its growth and keep its form compact, the tree may be “candled” in early summer. This means removing or shortening the new growths, or candles.

Planting notes. Thunderhead pine is best planted in average, well-drained soil in a location where it receives more than half a day of sun — full sun is ideal. Water it well (1 inch of water per week) until it becomes well established.

More: Lay of the Landscape: Create the Beauty of a Japanese Garden

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