Japanese black pine is noted for its whitish terminal buds that provide interesting contrast with its dark green foliage. Though growing larger in optimum conditions, typically it is more often seen in the 20 to 60 feet tall and 12 to 20 feet wide. It is upright and rounded, becoming broad with age. Young foliage candles are upright. Oval, brown cones are less than 3 inches long. As the tree ages, bark turns dark purplish-gray and fissures into plates. Synonymous with P. thunbergiana.
Grow in fertile, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Tolerates some light afternoon shade and some drought. Salt tolerant.