Chinese White Pine Data Sheet

• Common name: Chinese white pine

• Latin name: Pinus armandii

• Genus: Pinus

• Height: 35 m (115 ft)

• Type: Evergreen

• Hardiness: Zone 6–8

• Conservation status: Least concern

Pinus Armandii, commonly known as the Chinese white pine, is a conifer native to China. Its range extends across Gansu, Yunnan, Burma and Taiwan.

This tree is generally found at medium to high altitudes, mostly from 1,000 m (3,300 ft) to 3,300 m (10,800 ft).

The Chinese white pine is a medium sized tree reaching a height of 35 m (115 ft) tall. The bark is dark brown which becomes more grey with age. Large cracks appear in the bark with maturity. The cones are conical, reaching a length of 15 cm. The cones start out green and turn brown when ripe. The scales are large, each hiding a pine nut seed. The needles are arranged in clumps of five and are light green, reaching a length of 20 cm.

The Chinese white pine is closely related to the Yunnan pine, which all share many of its characteristics. There are 3 variations of this species, Pinus armandii var. mastersiana, Pinus armandii var. armandii and Pinus armandii var. dabeshanensis.

Chinese white pine trees are commercially grown for their pine nuts. The seeds are responsible for a condition in humans called, pine mouth. This severely impairs the taste buds and creating a strong metallic taste in the mouth that can last for weeks. The wood is used commercially for timber production.

It is also a popular choice as an ornamental landscape tree and bonsai enthusiasts.

Pre Germination

These seeds need no pretreatment or stratification before sowing. Fill trays or pots with quality compost and firm down gently. Spread seeds across the surface; around 5 in a 10 cm pot is ideal. Cover with 3 mm of compost and gently firm down.

Keep compost damp, not soaking wet. Never allow it to dry out. Place pots or trays on a warm windowsill or in a warm conservatory. Germination should occur at 1–3 weeks.

Post Germination

Once seedlings appear, keep them in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of damping off disease. Place in bright conditions; a windowsill is ideal. Ensure seedlings don't dry out. Water logging should also be avoided; young trees hate wet feet. These seedlings are large and sturdy with a Jurassic look. They can be separated into their own 4" pots at 15–20 weeks; by this stage they are frost hardy and can stay outside all year. Fertilization is not required up to this point. During spring and summer we advise using an NPK 10-10-10 fertilizer every 4 weeks.

CAUTION: Slugs and snails love juicy young pines and spruces. Mice will also steal these seeds.

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