Pinus densiflora 'Oculus Draconis' (Japanese Red Pine 'Oculus Draconis') is a distinctive, variegated conifer grown for its banded needles that read green and yellow from a distance and create a dramatic, patterned effect when viewed up close. Over time, it can develop a picturesque form with a broad, spreading crown and attractive bark tones that add seasonal interest beyond the foliage.

Give this plant a bright, open location in full sun for best color and density. Plant it in well-drained soil and avoid spots that stay soggy, especially in winter. Once established, keep the root zone evenly moist during extended dry periods, but let the soil surface dry slightly between deep waterings so the roots stay healthy.

At maturity it can reach roughly 20-40 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide, so allow room for its eventual spread and irregular silhouette. It is often trained as a small tree or allowed to grow into a larger specimen, and it can also be used as an accent in Asian-inspired or collector gardens where needle pattern and structure are the focus.

Prune sparingly and only when needed to remove damaged or crossing branches, shaping gradually to preserve its natural character. If you want tighter growth, pinch or shorten new candles in late spring according to your local timing, taking care not to remove all new growth from a branch tip.

Mulch lightly to moderate soil temperature and reduce drought stress, keeping mulch a few inches away from the trunk. Protect from strong, drying winds when young, and site it where the canopy can develop without crowding so the variegation and form are easy to appreciate.

Specifications

• Cold hardiness zone: 6-7 (-10 degrees F) - Contact your local extension to confirm hardiness if you are in a fringe zone (we cannot guarantee hardiness in fringe zones)
• Light: Full sun
• Growth rate: Slow
• Mature height: 240-480"
• Spread: 180-240"
• Evergreen: Yes

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