Lacebark Pine Pinus bungeana
ABOUT
The Lacebark Pine is known for its striking bark, which peels away in patches to reveal a mosaic of greens, whites, and purples, giving it a unique and decorative appearance. The tree's needles are typically grouped in threes, are long and slender, and present a blue-green hue that adds to its visual interest. Cones are another defining characteristic of the Lacebark Pine, which are often oval-shaped and remain on the tree for an extended period before falling off. The plant's overall structure is often upright and conical, contributing to its ornamental value in landscapes. The Lacebark Pine's stunning bark and evergreen foliage make it a popular choice for gardens and parks where its beauty can be appreciated year-round.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Lacebark Pine, White-barked Pine, Ghost Pine, Bunge's Pine
Common names
Pinus bungeana.
ToxicityTo humans
Lacebark pine is generally not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion of any part of the Lacebark pine in humans, and it is not listed as a toxic plant by major health organizations.
To pets
Lacebark pine is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, it is always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants as they can sometimes cause gastrointestinal upset due to the physical nature of the plant material or from any pesticides or chemicals that may be on the plant. If a pet does ingest parts of the Lacebark pine and shows signs of illness, contacting a veterinarian would be advisable.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
50 feet (15 meters)
Spread
20 feet (6 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
China
Benefits
General Benefits- Landscape Aesthetics: Pinus bungeana, commonly known as Lacebark Pine, adds visual interest to landscapes with its distinctive exfoliating bark and conical shape.
- Shade Production: It can provide ample shade in gardens and parks, creating a cooler microclimate for relaxation and protection from the sun.
- Erosion Control: The extensive root system helps stabilize slopes and prevent soil erosion.
- Habitat for Wildlife: The tree offers shelter and cone seeds as a food source for birds, squirrels, and other wildlife.
- Year-Round Interest: Lacebark Pine is an evergreen species, providing greenery and interest throughout all seasons.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less water compared to other decorative plants.
- Low Maintenance: Needs minimal maintenance once established, making it a practical choice for both private and public spaces.
- Windbreak: Can serve as an effective windbreak, protecting structures and other plants from strong winds.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Pinus bungeana, also known as Lacebark Pine, has been studied for its potential antioxidant properties.
- Antibacterial effects: Extracts from this pine may exhibit antibacterial activity against certain bacterial strains.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The distinct exfoliating bark of the Lacebark Pine has served as an inspiration for artists and designers, influencing texture and pattern in works of art and decoration.
- Bonsai: Lacebark Pine is often used in the traditional Japanese art form of bonsai due to its unique bark and the ease with which it can be shaped and maintained.
- Education and Research: Botanical gardens and academic institutions use Lacebark Pine for teaching dendrology and conducting research on its growth patterns and resistance to pollution.
- Cultural Symbolism: In certain cultures, Lacebark Pines are planted in temple gardens or sacred groves as symbols of longevity and immortality.
- Privacy Screening: Due to its dense foliage, Lacebark Pine is planted in residential and public landscapes to create privacy screens and windbreaks.
- Noise Reduction: When planted in rows, these trees can help dampen traffic noise and create quieter, more serene urban environments.
- Woodworking: The wood of Lacebark Pine is occasionally used for making small wooden crafts and ornamental items due to its workability and fine texture.
- Habitat Support: Lacebark Pines provide habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals, which can nest in their branches or forage for cones.
- Erosion Control: Root systems of these trees can help stabilize soil on slopes, reducing erosion in areas prone to landslides or heavy rainfall.
- Special Events: In some regions, branches or seedlings of Lacebark Pines are given as gifts during special events or celebrations as a symbol of peace or friendship.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Pinus bungeana, commonly known as Lacebark Pine, is not typically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Lacebark Pine is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Longevity and Immortality: Pinus bungeana, also known as Lacebark Pine, often symbolizes longevity due to its ability to live for hundreds of years, and its evergreen nature which suggests enduring life.
- Resilience and Strength: As pines can survive in harsh climates and remain evergreen throughout the year, they are frequently associated with resilience and the ability to withstand challenges.
- Peace and Solitude: The Lacebark Pine's tranquil appearance and the serene environments they often inhabit lead to associations with peace and providing a space for solitude and reflection.
- Wisdom and Foresight: An old pine is often considered wise and seeing it as a symbol of foresight comes from the tree's slow, deliberative growth and the long view it 'witnesses' over its lifespan.
WaterThe Lacebark Pine requires deep watering to ensure the roots are well saturated. It's best to water this tree with about 10 gallons every two to three weeks during the growing season, reducing frequency in the colder months. Avoid shallow, frequent watering, as it encourages poor root development. Newly planted Lacebark Pines will need more regular watering, about once a week, to establish their root system. In areas with sufficient rainfall, you may only need to water during dry spells.
LightLacebark Pine thrives in full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. The best spot for this tree is an open area with unobstructed exposure to sunlight where it can receive ample light from above, ensuring a healthy, evenly shaped crown.
TemperatureThe Lacebark Pine is hardy and adaptable, tolerating temperatures as low as -20°F and as high as 100°F. However, the ideal temperature range for this tree is between 60°F and 70°F. They are well-suited to temperate climates and can handle seasonal fluctuations typical of such regions.
PruningPruning the Lacebark Pine is done to maintain a strong structure, remove damaged or diseased limbs, and control its size. It's best to prune during the tree's dormant period in late winter to early spring, before new growth starts. Pruning once every three to four years is usually sufficient, focusing on removing only the necessary branches to preserve the tree's natural form.
CleaningAs needed
SoilLacebark Pine prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of sand, loam, and organic matter works well. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
RepottingLacebark Pine trees, being slow growers, do not need frequent repotting. They should be repotted every 3 to 5 years to prevent root bounding and renew soil nutrients.
Humidity & MistingLacebark Pines do well in average outdoor humidity levels; they do not have specific humidity requirements and can tolerate a range of conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Lacebark Pine near a sunny window and keep cool in winter.
Outdoor
Plant Lacebark Pine in full sun with room for growth.
Hardiness zone
4-7 USDA
Life cyclePinus bungeana, commonly known as the Lacebark Pine, begins its life when a seed germinates in favorable soil conditions, typically requiring exposure to sunlight and sufficient moisture. The seedling stage is characterized by the emergence of a radical (root) and cotyledons (seed leaves), followed by the development of true leaves and a strong taproot. As it grows into a sapling, the Lacebark Pine exhibits rapid vertical growth, developing its characteristic fissured and multi-colored bark. During its maturation stage, the tree starts producing cones after several years, with male cones releasing pollen and female cones developing seeds. The mature tree reaches reproductive age and through wind pollination, male cones disperse pollen to fertilize female cones, resulting in viable seeds that are eventually dispersed to propagate new plants. The Lacebark Pine can live for several hundred years, continuing to grow and produce cones annually, with older trees having a broad, rounded crown and unique peeling bark pattern.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Lacebark Pine (Pinus bungeana) is through seed sowing. The best time to sow seeds is in late winter to early spring. Seeds should be collected from cones in late autumn, and it is advisable to stratify them for a period of 60-90 days at a temperature of 33.8 to 39.2 degrees Fahrenheit (1 to 4 degrees Celsius) to break dormancy. Post-stratification, seeds can be sown in well-drained, sandy soil at a depth of about 0.2 inches (5 millimeters). The pots or trays containing the seeds should be kept in a cold frame or an unheated greenhouse. Germination can be irregular, often taking several months. Once seedlings have emerged and are large enough to handle, they can be individually potted and grown on until they are ready to be planted out.
