Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Pinus monticola 'Nana'
Dwarf Western White Pine
- Family
- Pinaceae
- Height
- 3 ft to 5 ft
- Width
- 4 ft to 6 ft
- Flower color
- Reddish spring pollen cones with elongated tan seed cones
- Foliage color
- Soft blue green needles with a dense rounded evergreen habit
- Bloom time
- Spring
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Moderate
- Maintenance
- Low; prune selectively only as needed to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Songbirds and small mammals feed on seeds with branches providing shelter
About this plant
Pinus monticola 'Nana' produces small reddish female cones and pale yellow pollen cones in spring, adding subtle seasonal color among the foliage. Soft, blue-green needles are borne in bundles of five and arranged densely along the branches, creating a refined texture and a graceful evergreen framework that remains attractive throughout the year. New growth emerges with a lighter hue, bringing additional contrast and depth to the plant. The needles have a soft appearance and gentle movement that contribute to its elegant character.
Originating from a species native to western North America, this cultivar was selected for its compact habit and ornamental appeal. It is well suited to rock gardens, conifer collections, foundation plantings, and mixed borders, where its evergreen foliage and fine texture provide year-round structure and seasonal interest.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Rock Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Bird Gardens
Companion plants
Iris · Yarrow · Blazing star · Giant Hyssop · Bellflowers · Rock rose
Design tip
Balance the dense, rounded form of ‘Nana’ with plants that have looser or more vertical silhouettes, allowing its soft blue-green needles to provide a calm structural counterpoint. Lighter spring growth adds subtle dimension to the finely textured evergreen foliage.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at The Oregon Garden.
