Japanese umbrella pines Sciadopitys (California, PA)

Japanese umbrella pines Sciadopitys

Japanese umbrella pines also known as Sciadopitys verticillata are a particularly uncommon and endearing species of conifer. It has been around for more than 230 million years and is a living fossil. Before the continents were united the native range of the Japanese Umbrella Pines extended from Asia and Europe to North America but it is currently only found on three Japanese islands. Although it is a revered tree in Japan the native stands are now categorised as near threatened due to over-harvesting for shipbuilding. It is a much-desired exotic conifer that has been planted in public gardens arboreta campuses and cemeteries in Europe and the United States. Fortunately a number of beautiful Sciadopitys cultivars have been developed in various shapes sizes and colours. Despite being the only species in its own Sciadopityaceae family it is referred to as a pine.For more information info(at)coniferkingdom.com