The Dawes Arboretum

Common name: Golden Ghost Japanese red pine

Family: Pinaceae (pine family)

Distribution: Species native to e. Asia

Hardiness: USDA Zone 5

Life form: Evergreen tree

Comments: Much resembles the long known dragon's-eye Japanese red pine (Pinus densiflora 'Oculus-draconis') but it grows slower with a lower stature to 10-15' tall and wide. Needles are grouped two per bundle, 3-5" long, exhibiting a bright yellow-green variegation. A seedling selection from the original dragon's-eye Japanese red pine, Golden Ghost takes on a brighter yellow, ghost-like appearance, than its parent. Requires full exposure to maximize needle color.