One of the few notable spreading selections of Pinus parviflora currently known to the trade, ‘Eiko Nishiki’ is of ancient Japanese origin, but was not formally noted until 1976, when it came to the attention of William Valvanis, a well noted bonsai artist. Though there is some variation from specimen to specimen, most could be said to be of the creeping spreading persuasion, with a few slightly upright shoots to keep one guessing. The bark is notably rough and corky, and has some similarities to that of Liquidambar or Quercus macrocarpa. The foliage is exceptionally remarkable, as it yields short stubby blue needles that only seem to add to its gnarly stunted appearance. This snarly twisting warty silhouette prefers to make its home at the proverbial forefront where its unique specimen qualities are there for all to see. Mature size is often variable, with those roughly 10 years old reaching 2’ x 3’. Hardy to Zone 4.

About Eiko Nishiki