Pinus nigra 'HORNIBROOKIANA'

Austrian (black) pine was first classified by Austrian botanist Johann Arnold in 1785. It is a hardy tree which escaped Austria in early 20th century, and can now be found all around Europe, down to Turkey, and in North Africa. Hard to say if Mother Nature needed a stronger substitute for more tender species in the ever-changing climate, or whether this one is simply invasive. In any case its more than a century old journey has proved its toughness and durability. no wonder that new varieties are being bred and selected. They generally offer slower growth, smaller size or different habit suitable for common-sized gardens.

Hornibrookiana is a dwarf to almost ground-covering black pine variety found as a witches broom. It makes 6-10 cm long, dark green, slightly glossy, erect, stiff needles in bundles of two. It forms a spreading, saucer-shaped shrub with multiple leaders reaching maximum of about 60 cm in maturity and twice as wide. It is a small shrub for large rockeries or pots, ideal for bonsai makers.

Pines need full sun and well-drained soil that will not be too alkaline. No fertilizing required. Pruning is possible in late winter or late summer, never cut into branches which lack needles. You can shape the tree by removing or trimming "candles" - young new shoots before they develop proper-size needles. Austrian pine is commonly hardy to about -40°C (USDA zone 3) and this variety is supposed to withstand at least -34°C (USDA zone 4). It is also hardy for growing in a container where it will be prone to lose older needles sooner.

Last update 06-03-2020