Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine

$45.00 – $125.00Price range: $45.00 through $125.00

Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine is a semi-dwarf, slow-growing cultivar of the Japanese Black Pine. Its long, densely packed, deep-green needles form mounds on irregularly jutting branches, giving it the look of a thundercloud. In late winter, slender, cream-colored new growth emerges on the tips, resembling candles. Whether you plan to prune or train it, or just let it grow on its own, it will develop its own unique form, making it an ideal focal point, especially in small urban plots. Highly ideal for topiary and can be kept fully dwarf through routine pruning. Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine is the perfect way to add effortless shape and texture to your garden. It makes a great starter for bonsai.

• Botanical Name: Pinus thunbergii ‘Thunderhead’
• USDA Zone: 5 – 10
• Average Height: 5′ – 10′
• Average Width: 5′ – 10′
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun to Part Sun

Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Check the light preferences for your plant and choose your location accordingly.

When you receive your Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of your Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets.

Add a bit of slow-release fertilizer to help new plants to grow quickly. Add the recommended amount per fertilizer instructions. Be sure to water your Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine until it is established. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Additionally, certain plants may need staking. Whenever they become too heavy to stand on their own, add bamboo or fiberglass stakes for the plants to lean against or tie up for support.
Prune plants as needed to encourage growth. Always sterilize your pruners when pruning plants to prevent the spread of diseases.

If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your Thunderhead Japanese Black Pine and your time in the garden!