Pinus wallichiana Densa Hill - Bhutan Pine

Pinus wallichiana 'Densa hill' is a horticultural variety that distinguishes itself from the wild Himalayan pine by its conical to columnar habit, its moderate growth, and its significantly slower growth. Over time, it forms a narrow, highly decorative tree with long, flexible and trailing needles of a beautiful blue-green colour that contrasts with the dark grey bark. Its tousled appearance gives it a friendly and decorative look throughout the year. Well-suited for small gardens and tolerant of urban pollution, it can be planted individually or in groups, in a non-limestone soil that is not too dry in the summer.

Pinus wallichiana, also known as the Weeping Himalayan Pine, is one of the pines with needles grouped in fives on short branches, just like the Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) and the Swiss Stone Pine (Pinus cembra). This tree belongs to the Pinaceae family, which includes many well-known conifers such as Firs, Cedars, and Larches. Native to the forests of the Himalayas from Afghanistan to Myanmar, where it grows from plains up to over 3000m (9842ft) in altitude, it can reach a height of 45m (148ft).

'Densa Hill' is a much more compact form, reaching only 6 or 7m (20 or 23ft) in height. However, patience is required as its growth is slow, approximately 15cm (6in) per year. Unlike the species, which forms a broad rounded crown, 'Densa hill' has a narrow habit, measuring between 1.50m (5ft) and 2.50m (8ft) in width. Over time, it forms a dense cone, slightly swollen at the base, with a beautiful blue-green colour. Its trunk is covered with smooth dark grey bark in the early years, which cracks and flakes over time. The trunk bears numerous, fairly thin and erect branches. The needles, grouped in fives, are long, measuring up to 10cm (4in), and very flexible. They gracefully hang down, giving the species its characteristic appearance. With a blue-green hue, they also have white bands formed by rows of stomata. The dense and light foliage, which catches even the slightest breath of wind, is truly ornamental. The cones initially stand upright but become pendant in the second year. They are large light brown cylinders, measuring from 15 to 25cm (6 to 10in) in length.
This conifer develops a rather horizontal root system and prefers moist soils, but can tolerate dry conditions once well established. It grows in non or slightly limestone soils, preferring neutral to acidic soils. Hardy down to -15°C (5°F), or even a little lower, it is sensitive to windy areas and should be planted in a sunny, sheltered location.

The Weeping Himalayan Pine 'Densa Hill' will easily find its place in small gardens. Highly ornamental, it can be planted individually to fully appreciate its beautiful trailing foliage, or integrated into a mass planting. In this case, leave some space and choose slow-growing companion plants. Chamaecyparis obtusa 'Fernspray Gold', a Japanese Hinoki Cypress with an irregular habit and foliage that turns golden in spring, will create a superb contrast of shapes and colours. To maintain a Japanese atmosphere, plant an Acer palmatum 'Crimson Queen', a small Japanese Maple that tolerates sunlight and has beautifully cut foliage that takes on warm hues throughout the year. A stunning contrast with the blue-green of your 'Densa Hill' Pine!