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Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper (Juniperus chinensis var. sargentii 'Itoigawa')

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Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper

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Juniperus chinensis var. sargentii 'Itoigawa'

The finest Shimpaku variety from Itoigawa. Extremely fine scale foliage grows densely, prized for delicate leaf character. Produced many masterpieces at exhibitions.

Growing Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Lifespan
Centuries
Size
10-60cm (bonsai size)

About

The Itoigawa Shimpaku (Juniperus chinensis 'Itoigawa') is a highly esteemed dwarf cultivar of Chinese juniper endemic to the mountains near Itoigawa City in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is widely regarded as the finest juniper variety for bonsai in the world, distinguished by its extraordinarily fine, densely packed scale foliage of deep bluish-green. Growth is remarkably slow, making each specimen a product of decades of patient cultivation. The interplay of living foliage pads with jin and shari deadwood elements — representing the struggle of life against harsh mountain conditions — is central to the aesthetic. International demand for this variety is extremely high.

Lifespan of the Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper

The Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper lives Centuries.

Size of the Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper

The Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper grows to 10-60cm (bonsai size).

Basic Info

Origin

China (Itoigawa Shimpaku is endemic to Niigata, Japan)

Lifespan

Centuries

Size

10-60cm (bonsai size)

Temperature

-5〜35℃

Growing Tips

Placement

Full sun outdoors year-round

Watering

Keep slightly dry. Overwatering causes root rot

Styling

Finger-pinch thinning is standard. Minimize scissor use

Notes

Remove any reversion to juvenile foliage immediately

AdvancedConiferSupreme cultivarFine foliage

Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper?
A

Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.

QWhat is the lifespan of Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper?
A

The average lifespan of Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper is Centuries. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper get?
A

The mature size of Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper is 10-60cm (bonsai size). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper?
A

The price of Itoigawa Shimpaku Juniper varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: September 25, 2026

Growing Specifications

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Juniperus chinensis var. sargentii L. 'Itoigawa'

Synonyms: Sabina chinensis (L.) Antoine

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Checklist of CITES Species

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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