Japanese Black Pine 'Kyokko Yatsubusa'

About this plant

Pinus thunbergii 'Kyokko Yatsubusa' is a captivating dwarf cultivar of the Japanese Black Pine, celebrated for its compact, rounded habit and short, stiff, dark green needles that grow in attractive bundles. This slow-growing evergreen develops a multi-stemmed structure, eventually forming a picturesque, irregular dome, making it a living sculpture. Ideal for bonsai enthusiasts, rock gardens, small courtyards, or as a focal point in a mixed border, 'Kyokko Yatsubusa' brings a touch of refined elegance to any landscape. Its robust nature and unique form provide year-round interest, especially striking against a backdrop of deciduous plants. With its exceptional hardiness and adaptability, this dwarf pine thrives even in challenging conditions, making it a superb choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance yet high-impact specimen.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Requires minimal pruning to maintain its natural form, though some shaping can be done in late winter before new growth emerges. Tolerant of coastal conditions and urban pollution. Avoid overwatering, especially in poorly drained soils. Fertilize lightly in spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer if growth appears sluggish.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.