PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Prefers partial shade to filtered full sun; avoid prolonged exposure to hot, dry direct sunlight
Watering
Maintain consistently moist soil; avoid drought stress and standing water
Temperature
Hardy to -15°C; avoid prolonged temperatures exceeding 28°C to prevent needle browning
Characteristics
- Leaf: Flat, dark green needles (1–2 cm long) arranged in two horizontal rows on stems
- Cone: Small ovoid cones (1.5–3 cm long) with rounded scales, maturing from green to brown
- Bark: Gray-brown, furrowed into flat ridges as the tree ages
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; apply 5–10 cm of organic mulch to retain moisture
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release acidic fertilizer once. Do not over-fertilize, as this can damage shallow root systems
Eggshell powder：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; mix into topsoil to support slightly acidic soil pH without over-fertilizingPruning
- Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches in late winter before new growth emerges
- Thin dense inner branches to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
- Shape young trees lightly to maintain a pyramidal form; avoid heavy pruning as recovery is slow
- Remove lower branches gradually to create a clear trunk for mature landscape use
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA-verified non-toxic; no poisoning risk for cats
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental landscape tree; erosion control in mountainous regions; wildlife shelter for birds
