Nasu Japanese white pine
BeginnerPinus parviflora
A trade name for Japanese white pine from the Nasu area of Tochigi, counted with Azuma and Shikoku among Japan's three great goyomatsu. It is a regional strain, not a registered cultivar, and is common as mini and shohin bonsai.
About
Nasu goyo is the trade name for Japanese white pine (Pinus parviflora) grown in the Nasu area of Tochigi Prefecture. Together with Azuma goyo (Fukushima City) and Shikoku goyo (Shikokuchuo City) it is counted among Japan's three great goyomatsu production areas. White pines vary so much in needle and bark character that growers have long named them after their source region. Nasu goyo is a regional strain name, not a registered cultivar, so plants sold under this name differ individually and no particular trait is guaranteed. The similarly named 'Nasu-musume' is a separate, very dwarf yatsubusa cultivar sold under its own name and should not be confused with it. White pine carries short needles in bundles of five, lives longer than black or red pine, tolerates heat and cold, and changes shape slowly, so it holds its form and suits beginners. Whether a given plant belongs to the northern variety (var. pentaphylla) or the southern type cannot be told from the trade name. It is widely sold from mini bonsai to medium sizes.
Size of the Nasu Japanese white pine
The Nasu Japanese white pine grows to Wild white pines reach about 30 m; as bonsai kept from mini to medium size.
Basic Info
Origin
Japan (named after the Nasu area, Tochigi Prefecture)
Lifespan
Japanese white pine is considered longer-lived than black or red pine
Size
Wild white pines reach about 30 m; as bonsai kept from mini to medium size
Temperature
-5〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Fertilizer (solid feed spring to early autumn)
Growing Tips
Light & placement
Outdoors in full sun and good airflow; too little light dulls the needles and can cause dieback
Watering
Slightly dry: about once a day in spring/autumn, twice in midsummer, every 3 days in winter, after the surface dries
Temperature & overwintering
Very hardy (USDA zones 4–7). Dislikes summer heat and humidity; keep small pots out of afternoon sun
Soil & repotting
Free-draining mix such as akadama 7 : Kiryu grit 3. Repot young trees about every 3 years, older ones less often
Fertilizer
Organic solid fertilizer monthly, April–September, except the rainy season and midsummer
Pruning & styling
Pinch strong candle buds before they extend; wire in dormancy and pull old needles in autumn
Pests & cautions
Aphids and mites in dense foliage. As a regional name, traits vary by plant. Choose nursery-grown stock, not wild-collected trees
Nasu Japanese white pine FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Nasu Japanese white 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 Nasu Japanese white pine get?
The mature size of Nasu Japanese white pine is Wild white pines reach about 30 m; as bonsai kept from mini to medium size. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Nasu Japanese white pine?
Nasu Japanese white pine: watering & fertilizer — Fertilizer (solid feed spring to early autumn). Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Nasu Japanese white pine?
The price of Nasu Japanese white 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. 'Nasu goyo' is a regional strain name, not a variety registered under the Plant Variety Protection Act. Choose cultivated rather than wild-collected plants.
Sources: Species+ (CITES listing search)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Find listings for this species
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