Yunnan Pine 40/60cm (2L)

The Yunnan Pine, botanically known as Pinus yunnanensis, is an impressive evergreen conifer that offers a glimpse of China’s mountainous landscapes in UK gardens. This statuesque tree is renowned for its robust growth habit and distinctive features that evolve with age. In its native southwestern China, it can reach towering heights, and in UK conditions, it typically grows to 20–30 meters, making it a commanding presence in larger landscapes. The Yunnan Pine’s most striking feature is its crown, which transforms over time from a youthful pyramidal shape to a broad, flat-topped or umbrella-like form in maturity. This unique silhouette sets it apart from many other pines and provides an architectural element to garden designs.

The tree’s foliage consists of long, slender needles, usually arranged in fascicles of three, which create a dense, luxurious canopy of deep green. These needles, often 15-20 cm in length, give the tree a soft, flowing appearance despite its large size.

The bark of Pinus yunnanensis adds another dimension of interest, developing deep fissures and a rich colouration ranging from dark grey to reddish-brown as the tree ages. In spring, the tree’s reproductive cycle brings additional appeal, with small reddish male cones and larger female cones that mature over two years. Beyond its ornamental value, the Yunnan Pine is prized for its adaptability and resilience. It thrives in various soil types and, once established, demonstrates remarkable drought tolerance. These qualities, combined with its majestic appearance, make Pinus yunnanensis an excellent choice for creating focal points in expansive gardens, parks, or institutional grounds in the UK, where it can showcase the beauty of Chinese flora and provide year-round structure and interest.

Pinus yunnanensis is relatively low-maintenance once established. It prefers full sun exposure and thrives in well-drained soils, though it can adapt to a variety of soil types, including poor and rocky soils. Young trees benefit from regular watering during their first few growing seasons, but mature trees are quite drought-tolerant. Pruning is generally not necessary unless you’re removing dead or damaged branches. If shaping is desired, do so in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This pine is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but keep an eye out for common pine issues such as needle blight or bark beetles. Fertilisation is usually not required unless the soil is particularly poor. When planting, consider the tree’s eventual size and provide ample space for growth.
Protect young trees from strong winds until they’re well-established. With proper care, Yunnan Pines can be a long-lived, impressive feature in your garden.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
4–8 metres

Pinus yunnanensis is well-suited for the UK climate, as it can tolerate both cold winters and mild summers. Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters (-15C to -10C).
While Yunnan Pines are hardy, young trees may benefit from protection against severe frost in their first few winters. Cover the base of the tree with mulch and wrap the trunk with tree wrap or burlap if frost is anticipated.

1x Yunnan Pine Tree supplied approx 40/60cm tall in a 2 litre pot.

🇬🇧 Grown from seed at our tree nursery in Euxton, Lancashire.