Mikawa Japanese black pine
BeginnerPinus thunbergii
A trade name for Japanese black pine produced in the Mikawa region around Okazaki, Aichi. Known in bonsai alongside Shikoku and Genkai black pine as a regional type said to have short needles, vigour and good bark. A regional strain, not a registered cultivar.
About
Mikawa kuromatsu is the trade name for Japanese black pine (Pinus thunbergii) produced in the Mikawa region of Aichi, centred on Okazaki. It is a regional strain name, not a registered cultivar. A bonsai guide notes that among regional black pines, Mikawa (Okazaki, Aichi), Shikoku (Takamatsu, Kagawa) and Genkai are well known and are said to have short needles, good vigour and bark that roughens well. Black pine is native to Japan, growing mainly along coasts from Honshu to Kyushu, with stiff, long paired needles and dark bark, and it tolerates salt wind, drought and sand. Called the 'king of trees' in bonsai, it is the classic conifer, and because seed and seedlings are easy to obtain, serious bonsai can be started from thin seedlings. Mikawa black pine is likewise raised mostly from seed and is widely sold potted as mini bonsai. Because it is sold by region, needle length and bark vary from plant to plant and no particular trait is guaranteed; little data quantify how Mikawa stock differs from other regions, so choose by the actual needles and bark in front of you.
Size of the Mikawa Japanese black pine
The Mikawa Japanese black pine grows to Black pine grows 15–40 m, but Mikawa stock is mostly sold as mini bonsai.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (named for the Mikawa region, around Okazaki, Aichi)
Lifespan
Black pine is long-lived; little data specific to this regional strain
Size
Black pine grows 15–40 m, but Mikawa stock is mostly sold as mini bonsai
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (April–September, except the rainy season and midsummer)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
A true sun-lover—outdoors in full sun and airflow. Limit indoor display to a week in winter, 2–3 days otherwise
Watering
Prefers to dry out between waterings: thoroughly when the surface dries—once daily in spring/autumn, twice in midsummer, every 3 days in winter
Temperature & overwintering
Tough against heat, salt wind and drought (USDA zones 5–8). Winter in a sunny spot out of wind and frost; guard mini pots from freezing
Soil & repotting
Needs free drainage; dislikes wet soil. Repot every 3–4 years in early April to early May as growth starts
Fertilizer
Organic solid fertilizer monthly April–September, except the rainy season and midsummer
Pruning & styling
In April halve only the strongest candles; cut candles in late June–July for shorter second-flush needles; thin old needles in December. Wire in dormancy
Pests & cautions
Aphids, scale, pine caterpillars; sooty mould and needle cast from the rainy season to autumn. Traits vary under a regional name. It is native—buy seed-grown stock, not wild-dug trees
Mikawa Japanese black pine FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Mikawa Japanese black pine?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Mikawa Japanese black pine get?
The mature size of Mikawa Japanese black pine is Black pine grows 15–40 m, but Mikawa stock is mostly sold as mini bonsai. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Mikawa Japanese black pine?
Mikawa Japanese black pine: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (April–September, except the rainy season and midsummer). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Mikawa Japanese black pine?
The price of Mikawa Japanese black pine varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed by CITES and not regulated for domestic sale. 'Mikawa kuromatsu' is a regional strain name, not a variety registered under the Plant Variety Protection Act. Choose seed-grown or other cultivated plants rather than wild-collected ones.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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