cow's tail pine
Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Nana'
Overview
Cow’s tail pine (Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Nana') is an amazing evergreen shrub that makes a great addition to any garden. It has highly decorative, glossy dark foliage and upright cones that resemble cow’s tails, hence the name. It is a low maintenance plant, ideal for low-growing hedges, slopes, and rock gardens. This hardy evergreen is cold tolerant and generally pest- and disease-resistant. It is also shade, drought and wind tolerant. This ancient species can live over 100 years and stands out with its unique foliage which has a unique twisted texture and forks at the end of each branch. With its compact size, this amazing shrub adds a burst of vibrant colour to any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Cow's tail pine should be watered regularly. Water the soil deeply and allow it to dry between waterings. During the warmer months, water about once every 7-10 days or more often in times of extreme heat. In the winter months, water just enough to keep the soil slightly moist, about every 2 weeks. Remember, these plants are drought tolerant, so they don't require large amounts of water. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Light
Cow's tail pine (Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Nana') is an evergreen species of shrub or small tree that is native to China and Japan. This species prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate some partial shade. It should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight, preferably during the morning. Too much direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day can cause leaf-burn and stress on the plant. During the winter months, full sun is especially important for photosynthesis and survival.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6-9.
Pruning
Cow's tail pine (Cephalotaxus harringtonia 'Nana') is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub which requires minimal pruning. Pruning should only be done to maintain the desired size and shape; frequent or severe pruning can damage the plant and reduce its vigor. Light pruning can be done at any time of year, as long as the foliage is still green; however, avoid pruning when the temperatures are very high. In the spring, prune the trunk and branches selectively to maintain the shape and decrease branch density; severe pruning is not recommended. Avoid removing more than 30% of the foliage each year. In late spring, after the new growth has started, trim the foliage to maintain the desired size and shape. Remove any dead or damaged stems and branches, as well as any crossing or tangled branches. In addition, any foliage grown over the desired shape can be removed. Avoid shearing the foliage as this can cause damage. Overall, Cow's tail pine requires very little pruning; prune sparingly and only when necessary.
Propagation
Cutting, Grafting Propagation, Layering Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Seed Propagation
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