Pinus wallichiana, commonly known as Bhutan Pine or Blue Pine, is an evergreen coniferous tree native to mountainous regions, including the Himalayas and Central Asia. It thrives in temperate climates at high altitudes, often found in mixed coniferous forests with cool, moist conditions. This species can reach impressive heights of 30–50 meters (98–164 feet) and is characterized by its straight trunk and pyramidal shape in youth, becoming more irregular with age. The needles are long, flexible, and bluish-green, typically drooping gracefully, which adds to the tree’s aesthetic appeal. Bhutan Pine produces long and slender cones, 16–32 cm in length, that mature to a yellow-buff color with thin scales. The seeds are small, 5–6 mm long, with a substantial wing measuring 20–30 mm, aiding in wind dispersal.

Bhutan Pine is valued for its attractive, pendulous foliage and large, decorative cones, making it a favored choice for parks and large gardens. It is also appreciated for its relatively high resistance to air pollution, making it suitable for urban environments. The tree’s ability to adapt to a range of soil types and its preference for full sun exposure make it a versatile addition to the landscape. However, it requires adequate space to accommodate its size and should be planted where its elegant form can be fully appreciated. Gardeners should note that while it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to pine wilt disease and certain pests such as the pine sawfly.CC BY-SA 4.0