Japanese White Pine ‘Fukai’ 20/40cm (2L)

Japanese White Pine ‘Fukai’, botanically known as Pinus parviflora ‘Fukai‘, is a stunning variegated conifer that brings elegance and oriental charm to gardens. This compact, slow-growing pine is prized for its distinctive appearance and manageable size, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or as a focal point in larger landscapes. ‘Fukai’ stands out with its striking variegated needles, which display a mix of green and creamy white colours, arranged in dense, twisted clusters, giving the tree a unique, sculptural quality.

As it matures, it develops a broad, pyramidal shape, typically reaching a height of 3-4 metres over 10 years, with a similar spread. The bark, which becomes more attractive with age, adds winter interest with its greyish-brown hues. In spring, small cones appear, adding another layer of visual appeal. This cultivar’s slow growth rate means it won’t quickly outgrow its space, allowing you to enjoy its beauty for many years without frequent pruning. Its compact size makes it ideal for rock gardens, containers, or as part of a Japanese-style garden.

The ‘Fukai’ cultivar is also well-suited to training as a bonsai specimen, offering versatility in garden design. By adding this variegated Japanese White Pine to your garden, you’re not just planting a tree; you’re introducing a living piece of art that will provide year-round interest and a sense of tranquillity to your outdoor space.

Caring for Pinus parviflora ‘Fukai’ is relatively straightforward, making it suitable for gardeners of various skill levels. Plant it in a spot that receives full sun to light shade, ensuring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil but can adapt to various soil types as long as they’re not waterlogged. Water regularly during its first growing season to establish a strong root system, then reduce watering as it matures. Once established, it’s quite drought-tolerant but appreciates occasional deep watering during dry spells. Pruning is generally not necessary, but you can remove dead or damaged branches in late winter if needed. To maintain its compact shape, you can pinch off new growth (candles) in spring. Feed annually in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertiliser formulated for conifers. Keep an eye out for pests like spider mites or pine sawflies, and treat promptly if spotted. ‘Fukai’ is generally disease-resistant but may occasionally suffer from root rot if overwatered.