How to choose the right pine bonsai for you

For every bonsai lover, no matter his or her knowledge, the choice of the next tree that will be part of his or her collection is very important and can always bring up some doubts. In this blog, we will focus on the pine bonsai choice. Among the Pinus, of which we can admire their majesty in nature, we find some species that are perfectly adaptable to cultivation as bonsai.

We will talk about three specific species of these conifers: Pinus halepensis (Aleppo or Aleppo pine), Pinus thunbergii (Japanese black pine) and Pinus pentaphylla (Five-needle pine). We will set out the criteria to follow for the choice of each one of them, considering climatic factors, adaptation, work options and the knowledge required for their cultivation: medium or advanced. Find all our pine trees on this link.

Pinus halepensis (Aleppo pine)

Features

• Origin: Mediterranean.
• Growth: fast.
• Needle size: medium to large.
• Resistance: withstands dry conditions, hot climate and poor soils.

Pinus halepensis, also known as Aleppo pine, is an excellent choice for hot and dry climates with warm summers. Its Mediterranean origin makes it very resistant to drought and high temperatures.

Care and handling

• Medium experience level. Although it is resistant to the specified climatic conditions and does not require special attention in watering, it does require some skill in shaping, as its needles are relatively long.
• Recommended for starters. Requires some experience or cultivation in areas with a Mediterranean climate. It is a bonsai that stands out for its resistance to possible cultivation mistakes.

Pinus thunbergii (Japanese black pine)

Features

• Origin: Japan
• Growth: slow to medium.
• Needle size: medium to large.
• Resistance: highly resistant to adverse conditions, such as salinity and strong winds.

Known as Japanese black pine, the Pinus thunbergii is one of the most appreciated bonsai trees, due to its thick trunk and its rough bark that gives it, with time, an old and attractive appearance thanks to its texture. It stands out for its resistance and adaptation to different climates, although it thrives best in temperate climates.

Care and handling

• Level of experience medium/advanced. Complicated to shape due to its vigorous needle growth and branching structure. Requires regular pruning and a specific growth management technique.
• Recommended if you have previous bonsai experience, and you live in a temperate climate, the Japanese black pine is for you. This bonsai requires dedication that is rewarded by its beauty.

 Pinus pentaphylla (Five-needle pine)

Features

• Origin: Japan.
• Growth: slow.
• Needle size: short, soft and dense.
• Resistance: moderate, prefers cool to temperate climates and needs protection from intense heat.

The Pinus pentaphylla, or Five-needle pine, is appreciated in the bonsai world for the aesthetics of its fine needles and its delicate appearance. It requires more attention in its handling than other pines, as it is more vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.

Care and handling

• Advanced experience level. Although it is slow growing and has smaller needles compared to other species, making it easier to shape, it requires careful attention in watering and sun exposition, as it does not tolerate excessive heat.
• Recommended if you have experience with bonsai and are looking for a challenge, the Five-needle pine is ideal for its beauty and work options.

CURIOSITY. Bonsai pines, together with Junipers, are the most representative species within the conifer family. Did you know that Taxus and Podocarpus are also conifers?

Let’s compare, which is the best pine bonsai for you?

The choice of the right pine bonsai depends very much on your knowledge and the climatic conditions in which it is to be grown.

In a warm climate, Pinus halepensis is the best choice because of its resistance. If you have experience and live in a temperate climate, Pinus thunbergii will allow you to develop your skills. Finally, if you want a bonsai that is aesthetically refined and requires more specialised care, Pinus pentaphylla is the one for you. Which one do you choose?