Sciadopitys verticillata aka Umbrella Pine

Sciadopitys verticillata is an evergreen conifer from Japan. Gardeners call it Japanese umbrella pine or parasol fir. It belongs to the family Sciadopityaceae. Its native range includes Honshu, Shikoku, and eastern Kyushu. It grows in mountain forests with ample rain and humidity. The tree grows slowly but can live a long time. It may take decades to reach its full size.

Garden trees often stand 20–40 feet [6.1–12.2 metres] tall. Their spread often reaches 15–20 feet [4.6–6.1 metres]. RHS gives a larger spread, up to 26 feet [8 metres]. Some sources report cultivated heights of 70 feet [21.3 metres]. Wild trees can exceed 100 feet [30.5 metres]. Young trees have dense crowns shaped like cones. Older trees become more open, with spreading or drooping branches. Some trees form more than one trunk.

The red-brown bark peels away in strips or plates. Dense leaves often hide it from view. Stout green shoots turn red-brown as they age. The tree bears small scale-like leaves and long, flat needles. The larger needles form whorls of 20–30 around shoot tips. These groups look like the spokes of an umbrella. Glossy dark green needles have two white bands beneath. Male and female cones grow on the same tree. Small blooms appear in May and June. Upright seed cones change from green to red-brown. Their thick scales enclose seeds that ripen after 18–20 months. Young trees rarely form cones.

Grow it in rich, moist soil that drains well. Acid soil suits it best, though neutral soil also works. It accepts clay, loam, and sand when drainage is good. Full sun suits it in cool summer climates. Afternoon shade helps where summers become very hot. Shelter protects the tree from harsh winter winds. It does not tolerate drought or polluted air well. Sources place it in USDA zones 5–8 and UK H6. Routine pruning is not needed. Training may help keep one main stem.

Use it as a specimen, lawn accent, or rock-garden tree. It also suits containers, foundation beds, and bonsai. Its evergreen leaves give the garden interest through winter. Wind can scorch leaves on cold, exposed sites. Snow and ice can damage the dense crown. Serious insect and disease problems are uncommon. Honey fungus may affect it, but the risk remains unclear. Its water-resistant wood serves in boat building. Wood oil has uses in dyes and varnishes. PFAF lists no known food or medicinal uses. It reports no known hazards, rather than proven safety.