Pinus wallichiana aka Bhutan Pine

Taxonomy

Pinus wallichiana, also known as Bhutan pine, Himalayan pine, and Himalayan white pine, is a coniferous evergreen tree that is native to the Himalaya, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush mountains. It can be found from eastern Afghanistan east across northern Pakistan and northwest India to Yunnan in southwest China. This tree grows in mountain valleys at altitudes of 1800–4300 m and can reach heights of 30–50 m. It prefers a temperate climate with dry winters and wet summers, and in Pashto, it is known as Nishtar. Pinus wallichiana is a popular ornamental tree with a broad base and horizontal lower branches. It is widely used in the timber industry and is a commercial source of turpentine. However, this species is susceptible to wind damage and insects. For best results, it is recommended to transplant when small. In the past, it was also known by the invalid botanic names Pinus griffithii McClelland or "Pinus excelsa" Wall., Pinus chylla Lodd. when the tree became available through the European nursery trade in 1836, nine years after the Danish botanist Nathaniel Wallich (1784~1856) first introduced seeds to England.

Common names

Bhutan Pine, Blue Pine, Himalayan Pine, Himalayan White Pine, Pinus Excelsa

How to care for Bhutan Pine

Difficulty

Bhutan Pine presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Bhutan Pine should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Bhutan Pine loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Bhutan Pine thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Blue Pine.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

Fertilizer

The Bhutan Pine grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.

Region of origin

Bhutan Pine’s native range is E. Asia - Himalayas from Afghanistan to S.E. Tibet.


More info:
Wikipedia