Plant of Merit: Pinus strobus ‘Nana’

Published 3:47 pm Tuesday, December 9, 2014

What: Pinus strobus “Nana”

This dwarf conifer is commonly known as eastern white pine. Classified as a shrub, it slowly grows into a small tree. Its branches are irregular and produce long slender blue-green needles. In its early years, it does produce cones. The oldest needles turn brown and are shed in the fall, so should not raise concern. It is native to Newfoundland and as far south as Georgia, west to Illinois and Iowa. An easy to grow conifer, it is deer-resistant and very hardy.

Sun or shade: The conifer performs best in full sun.

Size: Grows to approximately 8 inches in height and 12 inches in width.

See it: In the Conifer Garden at the Evergreen Arboretum &Gardens, 145 Alverson Blvd., Everett www.evergreenarboretum.com 425-257-8597.

Source: Sandra Schumacher, special for The Herald