Chinese Red Pine
pinus tabuliformis
Also known as: ["Chinese Pine","Tabular Pine"]
Overview
A large, evergreen conifer native to China, known for its flat-topped crown and reddish-brown bark.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","cold hardy","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Pinophyta |
| Class: | Pinopsida |
| Order: | Pinales |
| Family: | Pinaceae |
| Genus: | Pinus |
| Botanical Name: | Pinus tabuliformis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor planting in open areas with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"-25–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only in very dry conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate young plants to full sun gradually; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is ideal; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–14 days, depending on climate and soil conditions
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with neutral to slightly acidic pH
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use acidic soil mix; ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–7. Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (15–25°C). Tolerates winter lows to -25°C.
Protect from late frosts; avoid extreme heat exposure; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during active growth
Fertilize only in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings are challenging and less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Sow seeds or take cuttings.
- Maintain moisture.
- Provide warmth.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for seeds; cuttings are best taken in late spring.
Environment
Warm (18–24°C), humid environment with indirect light for cuttings; full sun for seedlings once established.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with added perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone may help for cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate; cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, rooting hormone, misting spray, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; maintain consistent moisture; protect from pests.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective branch removal; avoid topping; prune back to a lateral bud or branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased branches, and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased wood; shape the tree; remove crossing branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) for container-grown plants.
Method
Remove old soil; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required for established trees; container-grown plants may need repotting every 3–5 years.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water thoroughly; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the tree, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption and prevent runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to avoid root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–14 days during active growth, reducing frequency to once monthly in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to improve structure; ensure good drainage with sand or perlite.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or browning of needles in extreme heat; needle drop in prolonged cold stress.
Cold Stress
Needles may turn yellow or brown; growth slows or halts; potential dieback of branches.
Solution: Ensure good air circulation; avoid planting in frost pockets; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Needles may wilt, brown, or drop; reduced growth; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; water deeply during heatwaves; maintain soil moisture with mulch.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply once annually; avoid fertilizing in late summer to prevent new growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Pinus tabuliformis. The plant's components can irritate the feline digestive tract, causing discomfort and potential health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Pinus tabuliformis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's components, particularly the needles and seeds, may cause irritation to the dog's digestive system, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicPinus tabuliformis, commonly known as Chinese red pine, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The needles and seeds are particularly noted for their potential to irritate the digestive tract, while the bark may contain tannins that can have a similar effect.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pinus tabuliformis suitable for cold climates?
A: Yes, it is cold hardy and thrives in cooler regions.
Q: Does this pine attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pinaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, depending o |
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