Pinus densiflora 'Pendula' / weeping Japanese red pine

Pinus densiflora 'Pendula' is a strongly weeping selection of Japanese red pine. Officially described as a small tree, 'Pendula' will grow to mature dimensions of 8 feet (2.5 m) tall and 5 feet (1.6 cm) wide if staked. The length of the stake will determine final height and the branches will eventually reach and cover the ground. Typical annual growth rate is 6 to 8 inches (15 - 20 cm), mostly outward and downward. This conifer, if pruned and shaped, can produce a dramatic effect draping and cascading over rocks.

The cultivar name was first recorded in 1890 by Heinrich Mayr in Monographic der Abietineen des Japanischen reiches (Tannen, Fichten, Tsugen, Lärchen und Kiefern). On occasions one will see it listed as 'Shidare aka matsu'; shidare is Japanese for weeping.