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Description
Thujopsis Dolabrata, commonly known as the Japanese umbrella pine, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that belongs to the Cypress family. It is native to Japan and can grow up to 30 meters tall in the wild, but typically reaches a height of 10-20 meters in cultivation. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but matures into a broad, conical form with a straight trunk and horizontal branches. Its bark is brown and stringy, while its foliage is dark green and needle-like, measuring 1-2 centimeters long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Cupressaceae |
| Genus | Thujopsis |
Appearance
Thujopsis Dolabrata is a visually striking tree that adds a unique flair to any landscape. Its dark green foliage grows in flattened sprays and has a slightly drooping appearance, giving it the look of an umbrella. The needles are arranged in a spiral pattern around the branchlets, which are reddish-brown and covered in small, woody cones. The cones measure 1-2 centimeters long and contain 4-6 seeds each. The tree’s bark is thin and flaky, revealing a reddish-brown underlayer as it peels away.
Care Guide
Thujopsis Dolabrata is a relatively low-maintenance tree that thrives in well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It prefers a neutral to slightly acidic soil pH and should be watered regularly, especially during the first few years of growth. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall using a balanced fertilizer. The tree is hardy to USDA zones 5-8 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit. It is generally disease-resistant and not prone to pests, but may be susceptible to spider mites and bagworms.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thujopsis Dolabrata is relatively disease-resistant, but can be susceptible to spider mites and bagworms. Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking insects that can cause discoloration and defoliation of the tree’s needles. Bagworms are caterpillars that spin protective bags around themselves and feed on the tree’s foliage. They can cause significant damage if left untreated. Other potential issues include root rot, canker, and blight.
Habitat
Thujopsis Dolabrata is native to Japan and can be found growing in mountainous regions throughout the country. It prefers cool, moist climates and is often found growing near streams or in shaded areas. The tree is also commonly cultivated in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does Thujopsis Dolabrata grow?
A: Thujopsis Dolabrata is a slow-growing tree that typically grows 6-12 inches per year.
Q: Does Thujopsis Dolabrata produce cones?
A: Yes, Thujopsis Dolabrata produces small, woody cones that measure 1-2 centimeters long.
Q: What is the best soil type for Thujopsis Dolabrata?
A: Thujopsis Dolabrata prefers well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic.
Q: Is Thujopsis Dolabrata deer-resistant?
A: Thujopsis Dolabrata is generally deer-resistant, but may be browsed in areas with high deer populations.
Related Plants
- Thujopsis dolabrata ‘Aurea’: A cultivar with golden-yellow foliage
- Thujopsis dolabrata ‘Nana’: A dwarf cultivar that grows to only 3-4 feet tall
- Thujopsis dolabrata ‘Variegata’: A cultivar with green and white variegated foliage
References
- “Thujopsis dolabrata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c773.
- “Thujopsis dolabrata.” Plant Database. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Thujopsis+dolabrata.
- “Thujopsis dolabrata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 23, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/21982/Thujopsis-dolabrata/Details.
