Korean Pine vs Japanese Black Pine - TreeTime.ca

Korean Pine vs Japanese Black Pine

Pinus koraiensis

Pinus thunbergii

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(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Korean Pine
Japanese Black Pine

Korean Pine is an attractive conifer suitable for shelterbelts, privacy screens, and ornamental planting. This tree is especially prized for its pine nuts. Korean Pine nuts are larger than most other species. They can be used in salads, pesto sauce, and other foods.

This conifer is generally tolerant of urban conditions but much prefers cool summer climates.

Japanese Black Pine is known for its unique and irregular growth habit, making it a striking landscape addition. It typically does not grow with a central leader. This causes it to form a flat-top, classic bonsai-like shape when mature. When it has a central leader, it will grow with a twisted trunk. Another striking feature is the white apical buds which contrast with the surrounding green needles.

The Japanese Black Pine is an excellent candidate for a bonsai tree and is frequently used by the bonsai community. It is found along the Japanese coast and is salt tolerant.

Korean Pine Quick Facts

Japanese Black Pine Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 5a
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Nuts: large edible seeds
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Maintenance: medium
Maintenance: medium
Suckering: none




Other Names: chinese pinenut
Other Names: black pine, green pine, japanese pine, pinus thunbergiana, thunberg pine