Pinus nigra 'SPIELBERG'

Pine trees are superb trees which grow in a wide climate scale - from cold northern countries to hot coastal sites. They are probably most beautiful in their natural environment. Mountain pines and dwarf pines are common conifers of our gardens. Their limited size and dense habit is often welcome in less spacious areas.

Spielberg was found as a naturally occurring mutation of Austrian pine. It has long, slightly twisted needles of rich green colour. To make it look even more interesting in winter months you can trim current year's growths in summer which will result in forming new growths. In such case the new needles will not have enough time to mature and will remain short which will create an unusual tufty effect until the following spring.

Spielberg grows slowly and without pruning it forms a widely pyramidal habit with rounded top. Untouched by the shears it is supposed to reach 3m in maturity but I have never encountered a specimen of this size. Usually it is about 1m tall and has various shapes, even with a ministem. It can be modeled by removing or trimming new growths in early spring. Fantastic for bonsai makers.

It will look great as a small lawn specimen, or will be a perfect piece in a Japanese garden, or a large rockery surrounded by stones, white sand or pebbles. It can be grown in a large outdoor container. Pines need full sun and well-drained soil that will not be too alkaline, no fertilizing required. Fully hardy to about -34°C (USDA zone 4).

Last update 13-01-2011