About

Pinus bungeana, the lacebark pine, is a slow-growing conifer to 30 m, frequently branching near the base to form a bushy tree or large shrub. Grown primarily for its ornamental, smooth, grey-green bark that flakes away in irregular patches revealing creamy-white, red, purple, brown and green tones. The rigid, pointed, dark-green needles 5�10 cm long are borne in threes. One of the most beautiful of all ornamental pines for a well-drained, sunny garden.

About the genus

Pinus, the pines, are evergreen coniferous trees or shrubs � some with attractive bark � developing an irregular crown with age and bearing long, needle-like leaves in bundles of 2, 3 or 5. Conspicuous cones may fall or persist on the tree for years. Among the most widely grown of all ornamental conifers.

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeConifers, Trees
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full heightMore than 50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
Native toChina

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any well-drained soil in full sun. See Trees: buying and planting specimens
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to adelgids, conifer aphid, sawfly larvae, and pine shoot moth
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus and needle cast diseases