SKU:ber62d7-redcrocus
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A sculptural selection of Eastern white pine with gracefully curved needles and an irregular, windswept habit—offering year‑round texture and a serene, bonsai‑like presence.
Botanical NamePinus Strobus 'vercurve'
Common NamePinus Strobus 'vercurve'
Size & GrowthTypically 6–10 ft tall and 4–6 ft wide in 10 years; eventually 15–25 ft tall and 8–12 ft wide in maturity, with an irregular, sculptural form. Moderate growth (about 6–12 in per year under good conditions).
Hardiness ZonesUSDA Zones 3–8; protect from drying winter winds when young and avoid sites with heavy road salt exposure.
Foliage TypeEvergreen needles, soft blue‑green, in bundles of five; ‘Vercurve’ exhibits notably curved/twisted needles for a wavy texture year‑round.
Bloom TimeNon‑flowering; wind‑pollinated. Male pollen cones in spring; seed cones mature in fall of the second year.
Growth RateModerate; faster in deep, acidic, well‑drained soils with consistent moisture and full sun in cooler climates.
Light RequirementsFull sun (6+ hrs) to light afternoon shade in hotter regions; too much shade reduces density and increases needle drop.
Attracts PollinatorsNot a pollinator plant (wind‑pollinated). Provides wildlife value: cover for birds and occasional seeds for finches/crossbills.
Indoor FriendlyNo. An outdoor landscape conifer; requires full light, seasonal temperature swings, and excellent drainage.
Container FriendlyYes, for the first 3–5 years in a large, well‑drained container; transition to ground as growth accelerates. Use a gritty, acidic mix.
Deer ResistantNo. Deer may browse new growth; protect with fencing or repellents in high‑pressure areas.
Pet WarningGenerally considered non‑toxic; ingestion of needles/cones may cause mild GI upset. Avoid access to fallen cones for small pets; essential oils/resins can irritate if chewed in quantity.
FragrantSubtle, pleasant pine/resin aroma—most noticeable on warm days or when needles are gently crushed.
Cut FlowerNot a cut flower; boughs make excellent long‑lasting greens for winter arrangements and holiday décor.
Grows Well WithGrows Well With Acid‑loving companions: Rhododendron, Kalmia, Pieris, Vaccinium, Ilex glabra, Chamaecyparis, Juniperus, Picea, and fine ornamental grasses. Avoid Ribes spp. to reduce blister rust risk.
Planting InstructionsPlant in spring or early fall. Dig a hole 2–3× as wide as the root ball and no deeper. Set the root flare at or just above grade. Tease apart circling roots, backfill with native soil, water to settle, and mulch 2–3 in deep (keep mulch off the trunk).
Soil MoistureKeep evenly moist during the first 2–3 years. Once established, moderately drought‑tolerant but prefers consistent moisture. Water deeply and infrequently; avoid waterlogged sites.
Soil TypeBest in acidic, well‑drained sandy or loamy soils (target pH 5.0–6.5). Incorporate composted pine bark for structure; avoid heavy clay or alkaline conditions.
HumidityHandles average outdoor humidity. Ensure good air movement; avoid hot, reflected heat pockets that exacerbate needle scorch in summer.
Pruning InstructionsMinimal pruning. In late spring, pinch new “candles” by 1/3–1/2 to maintain size and accentuate the sculptural habit. Do not cut into old, bare wood. Remove dead/diseased wood in late winter.
Winter CareHardy in Zones 3–8. Water deeply before ground freeze; maintain a 2–3 in mulch layer. In exposed sites, consider a burlap wind screen for the first 1–2 winters. Avoid salt spray and de‑icing salts.
Planting DepthSet with the root flare visible at the soil surface; never bury the trunk. Keep mulch pulled back 2–3 in from the stem to prevent rot and pest issues.
FertilizationLight feeder. In early spring, apply a slow‑release, acid‑forming conifer fertilizer per label directions. Avoid high‑nitrogen feeds after midsummer. If chlorosis appears on alkaline soils, amend with sulfur or chelated iron as advised by a soil test.
Special CareMonitor for white pine weevil (wilting leader in spring—prune out promptly) and blister rust (avoid Ribes nearby). Protect from deer browse. Site away from compacted soils, air pollution, and roadside salt for best health.
