Conifer Quarterly Vol. 23 No. 3 Summer 2006 h o r G s i n n e D Directorate The Conifer Quarterly is the publication of the American Conifer Society

Officers President Tom Cox, 1621 N Lake Dr., Canton, GA 30115 Contents PH (770) 772-9747, FAX (770) 663-4063, E-mail: [email protected] Vice President/ Ellen Kelley, 3445 Oakory Ln, Bettendorf, IA 52722-3938 7 The Luminous Winter Gold Pines Treasurer PH (563) 650-2212 Susan Martin Secretary Kathleen Pottratz, 42438 SW Vandehey Rd., Gaston, OR 97119 PH (503) 985-7561, E-mail: [email protected] 9 Pinus Maximartinezii Past President Don Wild, 3058 Cross Creek Ct., Ann Arbor, MI 48108 Daniel Luscombe PH (734) 662-6461, E-mail: [email protected] 11 Collectors’ Conifer of the Year Directors Ridge Goodwin Term expires 2007 Ethan Johnson, 669 E331st St, Eastlake, OH 44095 PH (440) 975-1675, E-mail: [email protected] 12 Pining Away at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Gerald Kral, 900 Winton Rd. N, Rochester, NY 14609 Tim Thibault PH (585) 288-5082, E-mail: [email protected] Randy Oster, 29600 SE Kowall Rd., Estacada, OR 97023 16 Pines for the Rock Garden PH (503) 630-7975, FAX (503) 630-7955, E-mail: [email protected] Robert Fincham Term expires 2008 Flo Chaffin, 3650 Colham Ferry Rd., Watkinsville, GA 30677 PH (706) 310-0143, FAX (706) 310-0562, E-mail: [email protected] 21 (ACS) Addicted Conifer Syndrome Ellen Kelley, 3445 Oakory Ln, Bettendorf, IA 52722-3938 PH (563) 650-2212 Susan Eyre 28 Florida Pines and a Few Impostors Regional Presidents Dennis Groh Northeastern Region Walter Cullerton, PO Box 21, Pineville, PA 18946 44 East Meets West PH (215) 598-1250, E-mail: [email protected] Kathleen Pottratz Central Region Bill Barger, 3200 Rohrer Rd, Wadsworth, OH 43526-9531 PH (330) 336-9695, E-mail: [email protected] Western Region Brian Jacobs 13455 SE Lafayette Hwy., Dayton, OR 97114-8441 PH (503) 868-7914 Email: [email protected] Southeastern Region Flo Chaffin, 3650 Colhorn Ferry Rd., Watkinsville, GA 30677-3227 PH (706) 310-0143, E-mail: [email protected]

Conifer Society Staff Conifer Society voices National Office John Martin, P.O. Box 3422, Crofton, MD 21114-0422 PH (410) 721-6611, FAX (410) 721-9636, E-mail: [email protected] 2 President’s Message Editor, Evelyn Cox, 342 North Main St, Suite 202, Alpharetta, GA 30004 4 Editor’s Memo Conifer Quarterly PH (770) 663-7576 E-mail: [email protected] 46 Conifers in the News Graphic Design & Monya Barnes, 2255 Barrett Drive, Cumming, GA 30040, Printing PH (770) 888-0434, E-mail: [email protected] Cover photo: Pinus parviflora ‘Bergman’ from the Harper Collection at Hidden Lake Gardens in Tipton,Michigan. Photo by Dennis Groh. www.conifersociety.org

48 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 2 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 1

Give the gift of Conifer Society Membership! Pinus quadrifolia

It’s easy to share the Conifer Society’s benefits with a friend. Just copy and mail the form below with your payment by Dec. 10, 2006, and we’ll send the recipient:

L Our Welcome Package that includes information about growing conifers, our organization’s activities, and the names of members to contact in that region for local updates.

L A card announcing your gift (or send along your own personalized note and we’ll enclose it with the Welcome Package)

L Four issues of the Conifer Quarterly, beginning with the Winter 2007 issue in mid-January

Introduce someone wonderful to the wonderful world of conifers!

CONIFER SOCIETY GIFT MEMBERSHIP ORDER

Your (sender’s) name, address, and phone #: the garden produces rounded, brown Specimens of Pinus coulteri, the cones just smaller than a tennis ball. The Coulter pine, dot the garden, with the shade and fragrance provided by this best specimens found in our North stand make it a favorite destination in the Garden. The needles can be up to a foot Ë A check or money order for $30 is enclosed (US funds), payable to the Amer. Conifer Soc. garden for those in the know. long and densely clothe the ends of the The Coastal and Island Garden con- branches. While the swelling spring Ë Charge $30 to my Discover / AmEx / Visa / MC (circle one). Mo/Yr expires: ___ / ____ tains specimens of the Bolander pine, buds are like gargoyles on the ends of the Card# ______Signature ______Pinus contorta ssp. bolanderi. This rare stem, the Coulter pine is best known for pine is found in the wild in the Piinus coullterii cone ______pygmy forests of coastal, north- MEMBER’S NAME SECOND MEMBER’S NAME (same household) ern California growing in shal- low, highly acidic soils. While ______understandably stunted in the STREET ADDRESS wild, the Bolander pine retains ______a compact habit in the garden. CITY STATE ZIP CODE COUNTRY The dark green needles hide the small, hard cones. Collectors ______may be concerned about pro- (AREA CODE) TELEPHONE E-MAIL ADDRESS viding proper conditions for Mail to: American Conifer Society National Office, PO Box 3422, this plant, but our results have Crofton MD 21114-0422 found it to be very garden toler- The American Conifer Society is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt organization. Membership fees listed are those in effect at time of printing and are subject to periodic adjustments. ant and worthy of wider atten- tion.

36 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 13 will conclude the tour with a visit to the BY TOM COX Museum of Glass in Tacoma where we will walk over the Chihuly Bridge of Glass and see glass making demonstra- look no further than my home state of scientific jargon as well as those with a tions in the Hot Shop, a 90-foot high Georgia where ACS membership has need for more technical information. I tilted stainless steel cone. more than doubled in the past several welcome your suggestions and feed- Look for more details in future years and retail nurseries are brimming back as to how we can further improve. issues of the Conifer Quarterly and the with new conifers. These are indeed While I believe that all programs are ACS website as the Western Region exciting times to be associated with the presently of high quality and deliver finalizes the meeting plans in the ACS. One prime example is our mem- member value, there is always room to following months. We look forward to ber renewal which is currently at 80%. improve. Excellent organizations con- seeing everyone in Washington State This is an enviable rate for a society tinue to grow and to respond to change. in 2007. such as ours. I promise to listen and you can always The membership mix of the ACS expect a response. has changed since its creation. Looking As your new President, I intend at the early membership, we find it to visit each Region at least once over weighted towards those directly my term of office. I want to get to know involved in the nursery industry. This you and to understand the unique needs has shifted as more and more of our of each Region. I look forward to members are hobby gardeners. We working with you and your representa- must continue to meet the needs of both tive Board of Directors in doing groups as well as those that are some- everything we can for the betterment of where in between, such as those in aca- our Society. 2006 Conifer Quarterly Advertising Rates demia. This balance extends to the nature of our programs, the content in Dimensions Cost ($ US) Cost per 4 issues Ad Type (W x H) per issue (10% discount) our Conifer Quarterly and what we offer at the grass roots level. Our organization must be relevant to a new Full page 5 x 8 in. 195 702 member that might be overwhelmed by Half page horizontal 5 x 4 in. 135 486 Half page vertical 2.5 x 8 in. 135 486 Quarter page horizontal 5 x 2 in. 85 306 Quarter page vertical 2.5 x 4 in. 85 306 Eighth page 2.5 x 2 in. 55 198

Submit inquiries, ad material and payments to:

Evelyn Cox, Editor 16804 NE 102nd Ave., 342 North Main Street, Suite 202, Alpharetta, GA 30004 Battle Ground, WA 98604 PH (770) 663-7576 • E-mail: [email protected] catalog $2.00 The American Conifer Society welcomes advertising from companies and individuals selling 360-574-3832 fax 360-574-3596 e-mail [email protected] conifers, companion plants, gardening supplies and other plant-related products and services. http://www.collectorsnursery.com

46 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 3

shade of redwoods come to just above 1996, Tim grew up in eastern waist height. Washington, developing his love of While some of these pines can fit into conifer species as a child in the forests of collectors’ gardens, all are available to the his home state. conifer enthusiast whenever they visit southern California. A self-guided tour brochure of our conifer collection is in process to enhance visitor appreciation of these plants.

About the Author: Tim Thibault became Curator of the Living Collection at Ran- cho Santa Ana Botanic Garden early in 2006 after three years as Associate Cura- tor. He spent the previous five years at Descanso Gardens in curatorial positions, eventually as sole Curator. A proud grad- uate of Washington State University in

GEE FARMS Nursery & Landscaping 10 Acres of Container Plants Conifers, Hosta, Ornamental Grasses, Perennials We invite you to visit our display gardens and new water garden featuring many unusual and hard to find plants. Family Owned since 1849 8:00 am till Dark – 7 days Gary, Kaye & Kary Gee 14928 Bunkerhill Rd., Stockbridge, MI 49285 PH: (517) 769-6772 or 1-800-860-BUSH FAX (517) 769-6204 Visit our Web site @ www.geefarms.com for our plant list

34 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 15 EEDaITsOtR M’SeMetEsM WO est – The Conifer Artistry of BY EVELYN COX Man and Nature By Kathleen Pottratz Some people call all conifers, pines. In his article on page 28, Dennis Groh tells us about some Florida pines, and ark your calendars. The Western garden featuring mature conifers in a some that are called pines but aren’t. Region is planning a fantastic na- setting of ponds, waterfalls and tradi- From the opposite U.S. coast, Tim Mtional meeting for you on July 26-29, tional Japanese artifacts. Thibault talks about California’s native 2007. The meeting will be based at the The Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection pines beginning on page 12. DoubleTree Hotel at Seattle-Tacoma offers over 50 After reading these enlightening Airport in Seattle, Washington. We will bonsai exhibits articles, you may be ready for the cross- be visiting Coenosium Gardens in from Canada, word puzzle on page 34. Some of the Eatonville where Bob and Diane Fin- China, Japan, answers can be found in this issue. For cham will share their collection of rare Korea, Taiwan others, you may have to get out some of and unusual conifers. We will also see and the United those conifer books you paid so much the newly designed and planted dwarf States. The ad- for. conifer garden at South Seattle Commu- jacent Rhodo- I hope you enjoy this issue and find nity College Arboretum featuring a col- dendron Species something here to enhance your love of lection of conifers donated by Bob and Botanical Gar- conifers and to help you show them off Diane as well as a new Chinese Garden. dens is home to one of the largest rhodo- in your garden. As you look to add to The tour will also include Kubota dendron collections in the world with your conifer collection, hopefully this Gardens, a five acre American-Japanese over 10,000 rhododendrons growing in edition has expanded your palette for incorporating pines.

Next issue: Fall 2006: Landscaping With Conifers

Did your love of conifers lead to some interesting landscaping opportunities? Do you have a story to tell about it? Do you have conifers that work well for a particular effect in the landscape? Please share your experiences with other readers. Send your contributions to us by August 12.

Future Issue Themes: Highway Treasures Unusual, Rare and Endangered Conifers Pendulous Conifers We welcome news alerts about conifers or about our members. Contact Evelyn Cox to discuss your ideas.

44 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 5

distinguishing characteristics. Keeping these facts in mind, I Keeping these facts in mind, I will describe some of the pine cultivars that I will describe some of the pine think will be suitable for the rock gar- cultivars that I think will be den. I will give the reader a mix of new suitable for the rock garden. I and old selections. The cushion-shaped cultivars can be will give the reader a mix of planted almost anywhere in the rock new and old selections. garden, tucked up against a rock or out in an open area between rocks. They Pinus leucodermis 'Smidt', another will give an appearance similar to an small, congested plant, has thick, dark herbaceous alpine but with a different green needles and becomes almost con- texture and color that may be seen ical as it grows. Its maximum growth is throughout the year. less than 1 inch (2.5cm) per year. This Pinus banksiana ‘Chippewa’ is the plant was found in the Czech Republic most dwarf of the Fordham banksiana before WWII and the parent plant is still selections. ‘Chippewa’ develops into a growing in the Pruhonice Arboretum miniature, irregular, flat-topped mound. near Prague. Two other forms of its It grows less than 1 inch (2.5 cm) per name are ‘Schmidtii’ and ‘Smidti’, both year, and the foliage is light green with of which are incorrect. tiny needles mostly held parallel to the Pinus peuce ‘Arnold Dwarf' is a branchlets. dwarf selection that develops into a

Pinus banksiana ‘Chippewa’

“It’s mine.” “No, it’s mine.” “It’s mine. Get your own Wollemi pine.”

(Left) Bill McNamara, Director at Quarryhill Botanical Garden in Glen Ellen, California and member of ACS. (Right) Tom Cox, ACS President. They’re holding the coveted “Wollemi pine” (Wollemia noblis).

This one belongs to Quarryhill. Look for an upcoming article on this unique botanical garden located in the heart of California wine country.

32 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 17 Conifers in the News The Luminous Winter Gold Pines Complied by Evelyn Cox By Susan Martin

ACS Receives Plant Discoveries Award times, the white pine was a wondrous he fair, woodland elf home of (excerpts from an article submitted tree, being twice as tall as the tallest trees Lothlorien, depicted in J.R.R. While most of these cultivars will by Kimberly Karlin) in England and continental Europe. Tolkien’s classic The Lord of the Rings, is grow in moist, well-drained soils and in At the Southeastern Flower Show Huge, straight, lightweight, durable, the a glowing forest filled with luminous gold- full sun locations, it is best to plant these (SFS), the American Conifer Society ex- least resinous of all pines; it provided the en trees that lift bedraggled spirits. pines in a spot in the garden away from hibit tied for the Silver SFS Plant lumber for houses, furniture, coffins, and strong winter winds and where they will Discoveries Award. This award is given boats as well as masts for the tall ships. Many conifer lovers find that they too not be subjected to temperatures that can to the exhibit which “spotlights related Beginning in the 1750’s, the Crown, benefit from that glowing warmth, espe- fluctuate wildly. plants of horticultural merit, adding to in the person of King George I, began cially in the winter months and they plant The following is a list of a few of the the public knowledge of these plants, restricting the cutting of pine in the a special group of pines that brighten the best cultivars of gold colored winter their use in the garden and their beauty.” colonies. At first, only the largest trees seemingly gray endless days of winter. pines that are commonly available: The display, designed by David were marked with “The King’s Broad This small group, members of the Pinus strobus ‘Winter Gold’- a selec- McMullin and Flo Chaffin, was titled, Arrow”, three hatchet slashes, denoting genus Pinus, have been selected as tion of our native eastern white pine with “Cool Conifers for a Hot Summer them as King’s pines. cultivars solely for their winter color a more open, upright habit that can reach Garden”. Within the display of 56 plants, By 1761, the restrictions expanded to characteristics. Brought out by the onset a height of twelve to fifteen feet in twen- conifers were interplanted with cacti and include any pine with a diameter of 24 of cold temperatures, the color of these ty years. Its 3-inch long needles are of a other succulents, demonstrating how inches or more. The colonists’ refusal to pines changes from spring and summer soft, blue-gray color which turn a light they can be successfully combined with pay for the right to cut pines on their own green to a soft pale yellow to a vivid lemon yellow in winter. By candling this other garden plants traditionally used in land holdings led to rebellions like the golden color during the coldest months of pine each spring, ‘Winter Gold’ can be the southeast. The judges were quite im- Pine Tree Riot of 1772 in New the year. With the warmer temperatures kept at a compact size if desired. pressed, with one commenting, “Beauti- Hampshire. of spring, the golden color gradually fully laid out and very artistic”. Another After the opening battles of the turns back to green. P. sylvestris ‘Aurea’ judge expressed, “Creative! Opens up American Revolution, New Englanders The same mechanism that triggers new thought process in the garden… sabotaged mast-tree cargoes awaiting leaf abscission in deciduous plants in the good variety”. Friends and members of shipment to Britain despite grave threats fall causes some pines to loose a certain ACS volunteered their time during the 5- from the British and reduction of the amount of chlorophyll each fall--just day show to answer questions and spread town of Falmouth (Portland, Maine) to enough reduction to provide us with the word about the ACS. ashes. But the colonists survived to win these golden gems. The King’s Pines their independence and ownership of The article titled, “The King’s Pines” their majestic white pines, whose image, P. sylvestris ‘Aurea’ in lower center of photo written by ACS member, Joan Kutcher, first depicted on the New England flag in at U. S. National Arboretum. See inside in the Winter Newsletter of Mountain 1686, still appears on the state flags of This small group, members of the front cover for photo of the foliage. Top Arboretum in Tannersville, NY Maine and Vermont. genus Pinus, have been selected discusses Pinus strobus during colonial New Caledonian Connection as cultivars solely for their winter times. Joan has given us permission ACS member, Ron Determann, Another P. strobus that is more to use the following excerpts from her Director of Conservatory and Conserva- color characteristics. compact is a cultivar called ‘Louie’. article: tion of the Atlanta Botanical Garden Found by nurseryman Greg Williams in To Europeans arriving on the east (ABG), has recently returned from New Vermont, ‘Louie’ will supposedly hold its coast of North America during colonial Caledonia where he was able to establish yellow color throughout the year; but

42 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 7

northwest. Piinnuuss vviirrggiinniiaannaa ‘‘DDrriissccoollll’’ Slash pine (Pinus elliottii) is a southern yellow pine with the widest natural distribution in Florida. It is drought resistant, tolerant of poor drainage and its cones open best when exposed to the heat from a fire. There are two distinct populations in Florida. The variety found in north and central Florida has predominantly 3 needles per fascicle and 4 resin canals per needle. The south Florida slash pine has predominantly 2 needles per fasci- cle with 5-10 resin ducts per needle. Araucaria heterophylla with female This difference is found in the variety cones. densa whose natural range extends to the lower Florida Keys. The spruce pine (Pinus glabra) is a 2-needled yellow pine with short needles. It can tolerate poor drainage and is more shade tolerant than most pines. Its smooth gray bark is more typical of hardwood species than a conifer. It is found only in the Northwest Florida hill country. Sources: The Trees of Florida: A Reference and short needles. It originated as a witches' winter buds. Field Guide. Gil Nelson. Pineapple broom seedling selected in 1978 by Dr. Pinus sylvestris ‘Repens’ is a Press, 1994. Sidney Waxman, University of Con- prostrate scots pine that grows about 2 Big Trees: The Florida Register. Daniel Casuarina equisetifolia with cone-like necticut, Storrs, Connecticut. This selec- inches (5 cm) per year. The winter buds B. Ward Robert T. Ing. Florida Native fruit. tion has proven to be the most popular are extremely resinous. As the plant Plant Society, 1997. of all the Waxman seedlings. Of the four ages, it mounds up slightly in the center. dwarf forms of Pinus strobus discussed It looks especially nice growing among here, it is possibly the most popular due several large rocks on a slope. to its soft texture and bluish foliage. Pinus uncinata ‘Paradekissen’ was Pinus sylvestris ‘Jeremy’ originated found growing in the wild by the late from a witches' broom found at Welling- Gunter Horstmann, in Schneverdingen, borough, Northants, England by B. Germany before 1980. A dense, minia- Reynolds in 1973. It is a compact, ture, low-growing cushion, it grows broadly globular selection; growing up about .5 inch (1 cm) per year as a young to 3 inches (7.5 cm) per year. Its foliage plant. The original plant is 6 inches (15 is dark green with short, straight needles cm) high with a diameter of 28 inches and prominent, bright brown, pointed (70 cm) and was estimated by him to be

30 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 19 Ridge Goodwin Receives the Marvin Pinus Maximartinezii and Emelie Snyder Award of Merit for More about cotyledons Dedicated Support of the American Photos and text by Daniel Luscombe was interested to read David de he got the villagers to take him to the Conifer Society Laubenfels article on cotyledon place from which they got the seeds. Inumbers in conifers and thought I Here, a few thousand trees grow. They By Don Wild should put pen to paper (or fingers to are described as being only five to ten keyboard) and mention my experiences meters or 16 to 32 feet (occasionally idge Goodwin was presented with largest region. of growing Pinus maximartinezii. 20m or 64’) tall – beautiful blue color the Marvin and Emelie Snyder Ridge was not deterred in spite of A few years ago, I was handed a with huge cones weighing up to two RAward of Merit at the American Conifer heart by-pass surgery and an occasional small packet of very large wingless pine kilograms. Society 2006 National Meeting in stint placement. These temporary “set- seeds and asked to germinate them! Unfortunately, this beautiful tree is Knoxville, Tennessee. backs” barely affected his pace and When I say large, they were at least 2 cm listed as being endangered by the IUCN Ridge was a charter member of the never his vision or dedication. (.75”) long and at least 1 cm (.33”) wide. Conifer Specialist Group whose de- ACS. He worked steadily to develop the Ridge conceived and championed The other unusual thing about these scription reads, “A total population of organization in the Northeast (NE) the new Collector’s Conifer of the Year seeds was the name on the packet – fewer than 10,000 trees exists. Regener- Region during its early years. Ridge not (CCOY) program. Originally, he agreed P. maximartinezii. I had never heard of ation is poor, possibly because the seeds only has been generous with his time to lead an effort to help publicize the this species. Out came the books and the are collected in considerable numbers and talent but also with his plants as he ACS. However, this work led him to more I found out, the more I became for food. Cattle grazing and fires also contributes regularly to both regional believe it would be better to focus on a fascinated by this strange, rare (and as I pose threats. The land is privately and national auctions. CCOY project, which would serve as a was to find out later, stunning) pine. owned but formal protection measures When the NE Region was having fundraiser and member benefit. He The seed was sown and eventually are being considered.” Researchers from difficulty filling leadership positions a chaired the committee and has been dili- the shoot appeared with the seed case the North Carolina State University few years ago, Ridge voluntarily gent in making it profitable for the ACS, still attached as is normal with pines. (Dept of Forestry) made collections in stepped forward and agreed to run for as well as enticing to the membership. The seed case was gradually forced off 1992/1993 for ex-situ conservation pur- the NE Presidency. He was determined The early returns of the CCOY program by the shoot and they turned into the poses. to revitalize the NE and return it to a show terrific results due to his profes- most stunning seedlings I have ever thriving and active region. Ridge con- sional leadership and creative vision. seen – a beautiful sky blue; but, even “A total population of fewer tacted the NE membership and called Ridge has already made arrangements more amazing was the number of NE organizational meetings in an effort for nurseries, plants and logistics for than 10,000 trees exists. cotyledons – 24 in all! This is the high- to identify individuals willing to take CCOY opportunities for the next three Regeneration is poor, possibly est number of any seed plant known – active leadership roles. His tireless re- years. another conifer record breaker to add to because the seeds are collected cruiting efforts were successful and It is with great pleasure that we the list of largest, oldest, etc. helped develop the current team leading present to Ridge Goodwin the Marvin in considerable numbers for The ecology and relatively recent the NE Region. During his term as and Emelie Snyder Award of Merit for food. Cattle grazing and fires discovery are also very interesting. A President of the NE Region, he chaired Dedicated Support of the American Dr. J. Rzedowski only discovered this also pose threats. The land is the 2003 Regional meeting in Philadel- Conifer Society. species in 1964. Apparently, his phia. Ridge also co-chaired the very Ridge lives in Holicong, Pennsylva- privately owned but formal attention was first drawn to the large successful 2005 National Meeting and nia with his wife, Jo Ann. Their home protection measures are being seed offered for sale at a local market. post tour held in New Jersey. As a result has a beautiful setting, overlooking the He recognized them to be very different considered.” of his hard work, determination and vi- rolling hills of eastern Pennsylvania. It from the usually offered Pinyon nuts, so sion, the NE has once again become our is attractively landscaped with rows of continued on page 26

40 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 9

Florida Pines And A Few Impostors Addicted Conifer Syndrome... by Dennis Groh 10 years later

en plants called “pines” are found in Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) By Susan Eyre Florida. They are listed below Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) Talphabetically (the species not native to Norfolk Island pine* (Araucaria het- n 1996, my husband Rich and I of the meetings since anyone can get up Florida are marked with an *). Seven of erophylla) – a conifer, not a pine, but a Iwere driving to the 4th Central and share a story or slides about a fa- these are species of the genus Pinus; two member of the Araucaria family. (It is Region Meeting of the American vorite tree or witches’ broom. This are not true pines, but at least conifers; related to the Wollemi pine, Wollemia C o n i f e r s tory was too good to keep to myself, and one is not even a conifer! nobilis, also not a true pine). Society in Cincinnati, Ohio. so I announced I had a conifer sketch. Australian pine* (Casuarina equiseti- Pond pine (Pinus serotina) Cincinnati was a hotbed of conifer When I read it to the audience, the folia) – not a conifer, has flowers and Sand pine (Pinus clausa var. clausa) & enthusiasts under the leadership of crowd loved it. People were writing on cone-like fruit. The fruit is like a smaller (Pinus clausa var. immuginata) major collectors Joe & Esther Libbie their badges what level of addiction version of the fruit found on a sweet gum Shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata) and Clark West. The Regenhold’s they had. The fact that individuals were (Liquidamber styraciflua). Slash pine (Pinus elliottii var. elliottii) miniature conifer and fern collections attending the meeting made them all at Coast cypress pine* (Callitris columel- & south Florida slash pine (Pinus were on the tour plus the estate-like least Level 4. laris) – a conifer, not a pine, but a elliottii var. densa) conifer collection of Louis Gaker. Members of ACS with ACS go to member of the cypress family. Spruce pine (Pinus glabra) Spring Grove Cemetery was an the meetings for information and inspi- arboretum cemetery and showcased ration (and to buy more plants). People Pinus elliottii var. densa several national champion trees. We with advanced ACS fill up their own also planned a visit to Jack Hart’s yard and then start planting in their phenomenal collection in Radcliffe, neighbor’s yard. Some buy or rent lots KY. next door or they just start planting in It is about an 8-hour drive from the church, school, library, or park Woodstock, Illinois to Cincinnati. We where they can view the plants. John were cruising through every cemetery Vrablic, DeEtta Montgomery or Chub between the destinations and I said to Harper are classic examples of this Rich, “This is going to takes us two affliction. weeks to get there!” I realized at that After attending several auctions at moment that Rich was hopelessly the meetings, some collectors start giv- addicted to dwarf conifers, looking for ing away plants that were early acquisi- witches’ brooms, and propagating these tions when they find varieties they like found mutations. So this is when ACS better. They tend to collect dwarfer vari- was translated from American Conifer eties or become pruning experts. Society to Addicted Conifer Syndrome! All plant collectors can really relate In the car between cemeteries, I out- to various levels of addiction and this lined the increased involvement with diatribe has appeared in at least three the Conifer Society and its members. I gardening books. This is the tenth wrote it like the 12-step program since anniversary of the article’s publication the 1990’s was all about drug and in the Society’s summer issue. I was South Florida slash pine – The National Champion Tree. It is located on the campus alcohol addictions. recently asked by the Quarterly for per- of the University of South Florida, Sarasota, FL. Circumference 130 inches. Height 67 feet. Crown Spread 75 feet. Conifer sketches are a favorite part mission to reprint it this summer. Of continued on page 24

28 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 21 The Award of Merit for Development in COLLECTORS’ CONIFER OF THE YEAR the Field of Conifers Honors Dennis Dodge New Selections Soon To Be Announced By Ridge Goodwin By Don Wild e on the lookout in the next edition priate time by UPS Ground (typically Bof the Quarterly as the Collectors’ the second or third week in March) and ennis Dodge was awarded the conifers. Extensive display beds of his Conifer of the Year Committee will an- should arrive within a week. All plants American Conifer Society (ACS) favorite plants surround the Dodge nounce its winning selections for the will have care sheets written specifical- DAward of Merit for Development in the home--for the education of visitors. He 2007 Conifer of the Year! ly for each plant to help you be success- Field of Conifers at the ACS 2006 has donated significant quantities of This exciting new program, begun ful, and will carry a one-year replace- National Meeting in Knoxville, plants to both ACS regional and national last year, is for the sole benefit of Amer- ment guarantee. Additionally, each plant Tennessee. meeting plant auctions. ican Conifer Society members and of- will contain a beautiful anodized alu- Born in Connecticut, Dennis has It is a great honor and pleasure to fers to our many enthusiasts the chance minum plant tag which has been custom been an avid collector and self-taught award the 2005 ACS Merit Award for to purchase outstanding conifer selec- designed for us, that will permanently propagator of unusual and rare conifers the development of conifers to Dennis tions. The plants are chosen each year identify each selection with its full for over 20 years. His knowledge and Dodge. by a panel of experts such as Paul Hal- botanical name, the year of its award, experience covers a broad spectrum of adin, Don Howse, and Larry Stanley, and the designation that it is the plants, but he has a special love and gift It is a great honor and pleasure among others, and produced for us by American Conifer Society’s Conifer of for Sciadopitys verticillata, with over 60 to award the 2005 ACS Merit some of the country’s leading conifer the Year! nurseries. This year there are again two The plants that we will be offering cultivars in his propagation house. His Award for the development of passion keeps him searching the globe selections. The dwarf is one of the most next spring, and those that will follow in for true conifer gems. His willingness to conifers to Dennis Dodge. exciting I’ve seen in a long time, and succeeding years, represent those that share scion wood and plant knowledge perfectly suited for rock gardens, typically attract the most attention at our with conifer enthusiasts keeps him in Dennis and his wife, Mary Lou, live troughs, and diminutive landscapes. The plant auctions during our regional and the inner circle and keeps the conifer in Bethlehem, Connecticut where his other, an elegant weeper, will develop national meetings, only with the Conifer world knocking at his door. nursery has become familiar to top nurs- quickly into a dramatic and impressive of the Year program, there is no need to His article in the 1997 ACS erymen, plant hunters and serious specimen. Both plants should adapt well enter a bidding war! Everyone can be a Bulletin, “At the Grafting Bench with conifer collectors. Dennis retired after to growing conditions found in most of winner – including the Society, to whom Dennis Dodge”, (Vol. 14, No. 2: Pp. 50- 45 years as the owner and operator of the country. the proceeds will go, to be used in 52), introduced Dennis to a much broad- Denny’s Auto Body shop. The dwarf selection for this year support of our mission of bringing er audience of Society members. His will be grown in a #1 (previously 1 gal- conifers and people together. Bethlehem Nursery was featured on tour THE ENHANCEMENT OF lon) container, and will have been graft- Your participation is again cordially NATURE’S DEFINITIVE SPACES during the Northeastern Regional ACS ed onto the rootstock of its parent invited! species. The full sized selection has meeting. He spoke at the ACS WOLF-RUN The dwarf is one of the most Northeast Region in 2002 and at the likewise been grafted. There will be 250 NURSERY produced of each offering, and orders Central Region meeting in 2003, where LANDSCAPES exciting I’ve seen in a long time, he shared slides of his numerous intro- will be limited to one plant of each vari- • RARE AND UNUSUAL PLANTS ety per member. Once we reach sales of ductions. •EXOTIC CONIFERS and perfectly suited for rock Karen & Mark Priebe His normally shy personality is 610-779-5717 250 of either size, we will be “sold out” often overwhelmed by his great passion Toll Free 877-779-5715 29 Klappenthal Road and unable to accommodate further Fax 610-779-0555 gardens, troughs, and Reading, PA 19606 orders. for plants while hunting for the unusual E-mail: [email protected] and sometimes bizarre varieties of wolfrunnursery.com Plants will be shipped at the appro- diminutive landscapes.

38 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 11

continued from page 9 It is too cold at money went for a good cause.” great broom. You can't continue to just Bedgebury to grow admire it... you want to know “Could Pinus maximartinezii Level 4: Networking - Now you have this be a new cultivar of the future?” (zone 9) outside but a small collection started but you are This is where graft and corruption set we do grow a few still not satisfied. The ACS leads you in. At this level, there is 'mail-bond- specimens under poly- to other people who have the same af- ing'. There are packages coming and thene and they come fliction. Beware of those who have going in the mail at all levels of ur- through our coldest lifetime memberships. There are two gency: UPS, FedEx, Overnight, winters fine. It makes types of family members of those with Priority Mail. You start grafting or a very attractive pot ACS. The 'enablers' take care of busi- rooting conifers. plant and grows slow- ness or family matters at home so the ly compared to other addicted can network alone at the Level 7: Going into Business - You pines so you can keep Pinus maximartinezii meetings. The 'co-dependents' come have now reached the pinnacle of the it captive fairly easily. to the meetings with the addicted and addiction. You have made your hobby I always smile when they blend in with the coniferites. your livelihood. Now any tree we have non-believers visiting the nurs- Problems begin to occur when you at- purchase can be justified! It's a stock ery. As soon as they see it, their eyes tend a family wedding in Washington plant! Now there is satisfaction in light up and they start asking if we have D.C. but you arrive to the reception helping distribute these beauties to the any spare plants around or “Where can I late because you had to go see the addicted. get one?” Gotelli Collection one more time! More proof: Conifers are not all Level 8: Benefactor - At this level you green and boring! NEW SEED EXCHANGE Level 5: Reading the Landscape - have spent a big part of your wallet COORDINATOR Now that you are integrated into the collecting conifers. Now you start conifer network, you start reading the relocating your collection and you About the author: Daniel Luscombe is Wayne Jope of Amesbury, landscape and looking for witches’ buy conifers to give away. This is the assistant curator at Bedgebury National Massachusetts has become our brooms in nature. Driving becomes 'Harper Predilection' and difficult to Pinetum in Kent, England. He is a new Seed Exchange Committee more dangerous for 'Baby Broomers' explain to your wife. Whatever level founding member and current secretary chairman and will oversee our as you are looking for brooms instead you are, join in on the fun and JUST of the British Conifer Society and a 2006-2007 Seed Exchange. of watching traffic. Add plenty of SAY YES! member of the IUCN Conifer Specialist extra travel time on trips so you can Group. Because of his interest in species Send seed donations to: stop at every cemetery between here conifers and their conservation, he has ACS Seed Exchange and there. It is devastating when travelled to New Zealand, New c/o Great Hill Hort Foundation another coniferite comes into your Caledonia, South Africa, Australia, 137 Kensington Road. territory and instantly finds a Spain and Tasmania looking at species Hampton Falls, NH 03844 broom you missed in your own in the wild, especially those that have neighborhood. Observation skills are potential as garden conifers in the UK. Email Wayne at [email protected] or Fax to (603) 929-1810 developed.

A seed order list will appear in the Level 6: Propagation - Perhaps the Winter 2007 Conifer Quarterly. ACS Seed Exchange excites you and you write for seeds. Or you find a

26 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 2 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 23 ly PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE s I begin my term as President, I would like to take this opportu- Anity to thank you for the trust and fied. confidence you have placed in me. During my years of serving on the Board of Directors, I have had the opportunity to see and learn from the likes of Marvin Snyder, Dennis Groh and Don Wild. It is an honor to join the ranks of such individuals. The standards have been set very high and I pledge to you my commitment to uphold the fine tradition of those who have preceded me. To be quite frank, when I joined the ACS I had no vision beyond just learning more and meeting others with similar interests. For those who know me, you understand my passion for plants. In 1990, Evelyn and I were for- tunate enough to acquire a 13-acre plot and set about establishing a private arboretum. While conifers came late in the process, they are now a prominent feature in the landscape. There is never a night that a plant book does not wind up in my hand. Like the earthworm, I’d much rather dig in the dirt than go fishing. Our society is in good shape, both financially as well as in the strength of our membership. Further, the current slate of officers and directors is a dedi- cated group that works very hard to add member value. This requires tremendous sacrifice of their time. Each of us understands that you are the customer and that we have to continually strive to meet your needs. Everywhere I travel, I see conifers

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Pinus torreyana

its cone. The heavy, yellow-tinted cones through brown to gray over three-plus can be over a foot long and are armed years. Plant Oktoberfest with spikes up to two inches. Needless to Pinus monophylla, the single-leaf say, we do not put benches under this pinyon pine, is a curiosity found in our The Dawes Arboretum’s 2006 species! It is not only the cone that is Plant Communities section. As the name annual symposium on October massive; this species approaches P. tor- implies, this species has only one 21st will focus on the selection, reyana in size. rounded, grayish-green needle per fasci- cultivation and uses of conifers. cle. The native habitat for this species is Needless to say, we do not put also somewhat unique, inhabiting our Speakers will include: benches under this species! deserts, particularly in the mountains. Dr. Richard L. Bitner Along with P. sabiniana, the foothill pine Talon Buchholz Almost as far away from the entry as or gray pine, P. monophylla is one of the Daniel Luscombe one can get and still be in the garden, pines with ethnobotanical importance as Susan Martin adventurous visitors are rewarded with a food source to the native peoples of Joe Stupka Pinus muricata, the Bishop pine. A California. Gary Whittenbaugh. chameleon in shape, from spreading to A stop in the Cultivar Garden finds broadly pyramidal, this pine is best loved our only pine cultivar, Pinus contorta for its stout green needles and density, no ‘Spaan’s Dwarf’. Lower growing than For more information, matter what size. The cones are like elon- even Pinus contorta ssp. bolanderi, this please contact The Dawes gated eggs held along the stem. They add flattened pine fits well in the urban land- Arboretum in Newark, Ohio, color interest as they age from green scape. Our 15-year-old specimens in the at (800) 44-DAWES.

14 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 35 EDITOR’S MEMO a beautiful 22 acre woodland setting of followed by a guided tour of the 150 tall native conifers. Pacific Rim curator acre Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Is- Dave Degroot and our own bonsai land. We will drive from sea level up to expert, Joe Harris, will offer demonstra- over 5700 feet to Hurricane Ridge in the tions during the tour. Olympic National Park where we will n this issue, we will take a close look diversity of the genus Pinus became Just east of Eatonville, in the see old growth Sitka Spruce, Yellow at the genus Pinus (pines) and several apparent. foothills of Mt. Rainier, we will visit the Alaskan Cedar, Western Hemlock and Iof its garden worthy cultivars. If you are looking for something to University of Washington’s Center for Alpine Fir. The peninsula tour will also I grew up in Savannah, Georgia and light up your own garden this winter, Sustainable Forestry at Pack Forest include a hike up to Marymere Falls spent some of my adult life there as a Susan Martin may inspire you to start where we will walk through old-growth above Crescent Lake, hikes through the young homeowner. During that time, shopping in “The Luminous Winter timber and newly-planted timber Hoh Rainforest and a stop on the Pacific pines were, shall we say, under appreci- Gold Pines” on page 7. Or, maybe you demonstrating sustainable forest man- Ocean coastline with visits to some of ated by the typical local gardener. want something for your rock garden. In agement practices. the largest Sitka Spruce and Western While a walk on the soft needles in a that case, Bob Fincham has some sug- Our meeting will conclude with a Red Cedar. pine forest and the fragrance from the gestions in his article “Pines for the dinner cruise on the picturesque Puget Our visit to the area will include a tall trees was hard to beat, I remember Rock Garden” on page 16. Susan and Sound serving fresh Pacific Northwest traditional Native American salmon that if you had pines in your yard, they Rich Eyre offer additional opportunities Salmon cooked on cedar planks. bake with traditional Native American were usually kept away from the house to find something special in their list of dancers on the beach of the Strait of as they were not always hurricane five favorite pines on page 25. We vol- Post Conference tour Juan de Fuca. Our last evening on the friendly. Besides, that was a place where unteered Susan for their top five list The post conference tour will take peninsula will conclude with a catered prolific spring blooming was the while talking with her about a reprint of place on the Olympic Peninsula where dinner at Camaraderie Cellars where we emphasis of one’s garden. her hilarious interpretation of the we will see the natural bonsai collection will be treated to an evening of good Along my journey of developing acronym ACS. Look for that article on of Dan Robinson at Elandan Gardens food, good wine and good company. We appreciation for conifers, the beauty and page 21.

Publication Dates Deadline to Publication Date Issue Calendar Quarter submit articles (approx. mailing)

Winter Jan/Feb/Mar Nov 7 Jan 15 Spring Apr/May/Jun Feb 6 Apr 15 Summer Jul/Aug/Sept May 10 July 15 Fall Oct/Nov/Dec 31 Aug 12 Oct 15

Submit articles/photos to: Evelyn Cox, Conifer Quarterly Editor 342 North Main St, Suite 202, Alpharetta, GA 30004 • PH (770) 663-7576 E-mail: [email protected]

4CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 2 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 45

Pines For The Rock Garden tions and makes its recommendation to the ACS Board of Directors at the annual By Robert Fincham summer meeting. Announcements of the award recipient will be made by August 1, 2007.

he planting feature known as a Knowing that pines work well in an “rock garden” takes on many differ- alpine rock garden, the gardener then Tent forms. But the true rock garden is a has to find the answers to two very im- representation of an alpine area that has portant questions: First, what pine selec- been reduced in scale and brought into a tions do I make for my garden? Second, home landscape. It consists of rocks (of where can I purchase these selections? course), well drained soils, and an Both of these are difficult questions assortment of alpine plants suited for the to answer. Hopefully, this article will gardener’s part of the country. These help you with the first question. Finding alpine plants are mostly herbaceous these dwarf pines may not be as easily plants that stay small and/or low and accomplished. generally produce flowers sometime Alpine conifers take on two basic during the spring or summer. shapes, both of which result from their These alpine plants often include a environment, not their genetic makeup. smattering of conifers. Since conifers They are either sparsely branched, con- are present in most parts of the world up torted, and wind swept, or they are to and even beyond the tree line, exam- cropped into cushions by grazing ani- ples do belong in every rock garden. In mals. Both growth habits are also possi- my case, I have a rock garden with 90% ble in the rock garden and may be conifers, but then I am prejudiced in attained through the careful selection of their favor and make extensive use of the pine cultivars or by persistent, care- them. ful pruning or by a combination of the Pines are synonymous with great two. age. The Methuselah Tree is a pine, and Cultivars that have been grown the bristlecone pines (Pinus aristata) of twenty or more years will perform in a the Sierra Nevada Mountains are works predictable manner. Cultivars that have of art. Japanese gardens and bonsai been selected within the past twenty make extensive use of pines. They are years may not be reliable and show revered for the feeling of age that they some variation from their expected give a garden. growth habits, especially those that are described based upon the performance Since conifers are present in of the mother plant or witches’ broom most parts of the world up to that provided the selection. Many of the newer selections are and even beyond the tree line, exciting, and a number of these will examples do belong in every probably perform nicely in the rock gar- 41370 SE Thomas Road ¥ Sandy, den. Others will disappear due to OR 97055 rock garden. 503.668.5834 phone/fax changeable growth habits or a lack of

16 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 33 contacts with the New Caledonian gov- Members in the News: 2006 Conifer Quarterly Advertising Rates ernment. The trip was in collaboration The website www.courierjournal.com Dimensions Cost ($ US) Cost per 4 issues with David Deutsch from Vallejo, Cali- posted an article on April 21 regarding Ad Type (W x H) per issue (10% discount) fornia who has made eight previous trips. the gift by Jerry Baker, an ACS member, ABG was granted special permission to of his home and gardens to Western Ken- Full page 5 x 8 in. 195 702 export some native plants and has added tucky University along with a substantial some, including conifers, to their collec- cash endowment. The home and gardens Half page horizontal 5 x 4 in. 135 486 tions. Ron generously shared some of his will be used as a teaching facility for uni- Half page vertical 2.5 x 8 in. 135 486 experiences and fascinating photos from versity students and for the enjoyment of Quarter page horizontal 5 x 2 in. 85 306 this trip with local ACS members and the general public. Quarter page vertical 2.5 x 4 in. 85 306 others interested in learning more about Gale Steves extols the virtues of Eighth page 2.5 x 2 in. 55 198 the society at a recent rendezvous at the conifers in “Compact Conifers Fit Any- beautiful home and garden of ACS mem- where”, an article she wrote for Small Submit inquiries, ad material and payments to: ber, Ozzie Johnson. Gardens. Gail recommended six dwarf Evelyn Cox, Editor Champion Trees conifers with photos and gave ACS more 342 North Main Street, Suite 202, Alpharetta, GA 30004 The only three trees that have been than honorable mention–interviewing PH (770) 663-7576 • E-mail: [email protected] listed on the National Register of Trees Tom Cox who provided pointers for suc- since its inception in 1940 are conifers. cess with dwarf conifers. The American Conifer Society welcomes advertising from companies and individuals selling According to the website www.american Gale also pointed out to us that an ar- conifers, companion plants, gardening supplies and other plant-related products and services. forests.org, the giant Sequoia ticle entitled “Extraordinary Evergreens” (Sequoiadendron giganteum) nicknamed by Kathryn Whiteside appeared in the “General Sherman” in California’s December 2005 issue of House Beautiful. Sequoia National Park, a western juniper Making Whiteside’s list were Pinus (sp.?) in Stanislaus National Forest, Cali- bungeana, Cedrus deodara and Pinus fornia and a Rocky Mountain juniper strobus ‘Sea Urchin’ (this one also rec- (Juniperus scopulorum) in Cache Na- ommended in this issue of the Quarterly) tional Forest, Utah are the only three that along with cultivars of Cupressus sem- remain from the original list. pervirens, Juniperus virginiana, Junipe- The latest coniferous additions for rus scopulorum, Cedrus atlantica, and 2006-2007 are described on the site as “a Juniperus horizontalis. Try to get your co-champion Baldcypress (Taxodium dis- hands on the December issue which also tichum) growing on a cotton farm in Mis- features an outstanding botanical print of sissippi, a Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) in a Deodar cedar and photos of the recom- California’s Stanislaus National Forest mended selections. and an Engelman spruce (Picea engel- Tom Cox was recently Lisa Bartlett’s manni) near Loman, Idaho”. Visit the guest on the Joe Gardener radio program, website to find out more about these and discussing Tom’s favorite subject 860+ other Champion Trees as well as to (conifers) and answering questions from learn how you can help American Forests the listening audience. The program airs find and nominate potential champions on a local Atlanta station and can be for the list which updates every two picked up over the internet at years. www.joegardener.com. Springtime at U. S. National Arboretum

6CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 43

dense, narrow, little mound. It grows pines that turn gold in the winter with continued from page 25 about 1 inch (2.5 cm) per year. The this selection being the brightest and About the author: Dennis Groh is a past foliage is dark green, and the needles are most compact. It is an exceptional plant president of the Society. He and his banksiana has good adaptation to poor actually longer than its annual growth, for brightening the winter garden with a wife, Carol, live in Dearborn Heights, soil conditions. It returns to green color giving it the appearance of a conical splash of yellow gold. Michigan and spend some of their time in spring. mound of needles. It was discovered as Pinus mugo ‘Jakobsen’ is a slow- in Florida. a seedling at the Arnold Arboretum, growing, bun-shaped selection with 5. Pinus pumila ‘Dwarf Blue’ Jamaica Plain, Massachusetts, about areas of exceptionally dense foliage. It Contact the Editor Japanese stone pine 1965. It is also found under the incorrect grows about 1.5 inches (4 cm) per year. Also listed as ‘Blue Dwarf’, this is the name of 'Nana'. Its foliage is dark green with curved best prostrate pine and it is the focal needles held tightly together against the Please address all editorial and point at our pond. After 25 years, half of Pinus mugo ‘Little thick branchlets and their dark green advertising materials to: the plant hangs over the pond and it is 2’ Delight’ color contrasts nicely with the bright high x 10’ wide. The twisted, blue white winter buds. Its dense, irregular Evelyn Cox foliage is decorated with bright red male (bumpy) outline makes it a perfect 342 North Main Street strobili so it is a knockout in spring with choice for the alpine garden. It origi- Suite 202 its low spreading branches. nated with Arne Vagn Jakobsen, Den- Alpharetta, GA 30004 mark before 1990. Pinus mugo ‘Sherwood Compact’ (770) 663-7576 develops a globular shape at a young age. It is quite slow and dense, making a [email protected] distinctive plant for the rock garden. Pinus mugo ‘Little Delight’ is a Growing just over 1 inch (2.5cm) per Woody Plant Conference miniature cushion that grows less than 1 year, it is a reliable selection. inch (2.5 cm) per year. The tiny needles Pinus strobus ‘Sea Urchin’ is a very Friday, July 28, 2006 and miniature buds make it exceptional- dwarf shrub that develops into a low Lang Performing Arts Center, ly attractive. It is an ideal choice for a mound. It grows about 2 inches (5 cm) Swarthmore College, small pine to grow in a crevasse be- per year. Its foliage is bluish-green with Swarthmore, PA tween two rocks. I discov- Presentations by noted ered it as a witches’ broom PPiinnuuss mmuuggoo ‘‘SShheerrwwoooodd CCoommppaacctt’’ Pinus horticulturists and landscape on a specimen of 2006 is our 60th year in mugo ‘Mops’ in 1990. designers will include “Major Players: The Many Roles of business. We offer dwarf Pinus mugo ‘Carsten and unusual conifers and Conifers in Design” by Fred Spicer, Wintergold’ develops into Japanese maples from small Executive Director of the a compact, broadly glo- to specimen sizes. bose plant. It grows about Birmingham Botanical Garden. When the snow flies, we make 2 inches ( 5 cm) per year. custom plant labels by order. The foliage is a rich, For more information, call bright yellow during the Longwood Gardens' Continuing 816 Holly Pike winter. It originated with Education Office at (610)-388-1000 Mt. Holly Springs, PA 17065 Erwin Carsten, Varel, Ger- ext. 507, or go to (717) 486-5142 many before 1988. There http://www.scottarboretum.org/. are a number of mugo www.suncrest-gardens.com

18 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 31 Washington, D.C. to ‘Aurea’), ‘Ophir’, ‘Pot o’ Gold’, trees from Ridge’s nursery. Of course, A little stiffer in habit, P. sylvestris ‘Zundert’ (lower growing and longer Jo Ann should also be acknowledged ‘Aurea’ will also grow upright to about needles) and the exceptional ‘Carsten’ and thanked for her patience and sup- eight feet in ten to fifteen years. The (syn. with ‘Carsten’s Wintergold’). This port of all the personal time and effort needles are shorter and stiffer than those last cultivar has shorter needles, a com- Ridge has given on behalf of the ACS. of P. strobus and the winter color is more pact habit, and deep orange-gold winter golden. The summer color is a medium color. green color. Perhaps one of the best winter gold Two other exceptional P. sylvestris pines is Pinus contorta ‘Chief Joseph’. cultivars include ‘Gold Coin’ and ‘Gold This slow-growing, conical selection of Medal’. Both have an upright irregular lodgepole pine has slightly twisted habit and grow 6-8” per year. Planting on needles that turn the most beautiful clear lean soils and not fertilizing will keep the shade of gold in the winter. This is one Shop our online catalog at: plants more compact. ‘Gold Medal’ stays plant that benefits from well drained lean www.girardnurseries.com somewhat golden year round, while the soils. Producers of rare and winter color on both is a beautiful clear And finally, from the scrub pine of unusual conifers, shrubs, yellow. the east coast, Pinus virginiana; we have and trees. Originators of the Girard Line of azaleas, 8938 Newburg Road One other fine selection is Pinus the glorious Pinus virginiana ‘Wate’s rhododendrons, and sylvestris ‘Moseri’. With its compact, Golden’. An open, irregular, wind-swept Juniper ‘Saybrook Gold’ Rockford, IL 61108 dwarf habit and longish needles it is quite habit and exceptionally bright yellow (Pat.#5014). Phone: (815) 332-5610 different from the other cultivars in habit, needles in the winter are all part of this Fax: (815) 332-7495 yet it still has great yellow winter color. cultivar’s endearing charm. Visit our retail garden center and gardens. E-mail: sciadopi- While many of the conifers that we grow provide a strong central focal point Girard Nurseries Pinus mugo ‘Aurea’ 6839 N. Ridge East in the winter garden, it will be these sun P.O. Box 428 filled pines that will cheer your soul on Geneva, OH 44041 those long, dreary winter days that never (440) 466-2881 seem to end. For that reason alone, they Fax (440) 466-3999 are worth their weight in gold. www.girardnurseries.com

About the author: Susan Martin is Pinus mugo ‘Aurea’ at U.S. National Curator of the Conifer Collections, Arboretum. See inside front cover for photo of foliage. Dogwood and Maple Collections at the U.S. National Arboretum. A founding Similar in color, yet with a tidy, member of the American Conifer mounding habit is P. mugo ‘Aurea’. One Society, she serves as technical advisor to of several winter gold Swiss mountain this publication and on the conifer pines, it possesses good, clear yellow nomenclature committee. She is the U.S. color in the winter months and a light representative for the International green color the rest of the year. Other Registration Authority for conifer culti- winter gold P. mugo selections include vars. ‘Winter Gold’ (which is very similar

8CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 41

400-500 years old when found. areas of congested growth. It grows Florida has a wide variety of after exposure to temperatures exceeding Pinus virginiana ‘Driscoll’ is possi- about 2 inches (5 cm) per year with light environments and no true pine is found 200 F. The term for this characteristic is bly the smallest Virginia pine available green foliage and thin, short needles. in all parts of Florida. For instance, the serotinous and the specific epithet anywhere. It is an emerald green cush- Pinus strobus ‘Tiny Kurls’ is an ex- loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) is the largest (serotina) means late. ion that grows just over .5 inch (1.5 cm) ceptional dwarf shrub for any rock gar- and fastest growing 3-needled southern Sand pine (Pinus clausa) is a 2-needled per year. den. It has the characteristics of Pinus yellow pine. It is a shade intolerant pine with short needles that prefers strobus ‘Torulosa’ (thin, species, adapted to well-drained sandy sandy well-drained soil. Its natural range Pinus sylvestris ‘Repens’ twisted needles and crooked soil, but not well suited for most of is predominantly limited to Florida. branches) but becomes a Florida and found naturally only in the There are two distinct populations that small shrub rather than a tall north. warrant unique varietal status. The tree. It was grown from seed Longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) is a largest population (P. clausa var. clausa) collected by Greg Williams in 3-needled southern yellow pine that is referred to as the Ocala sand pine. It is Vermont from a Pinus strobus thrives in well-drained soils. Its needles found in north and central Florida. It has ‘Horsham’ growing under a are extremely long (8-18 inches). Its developed the serotinous cone trait to Pinus strobus ‘Torulosa’. growth habit in youth and its thick help the variety survive forest fires. The There are many new pines mature bark make it fire resistant. This other population is found in northwest that are suitable for the rock extends its natural range to northern and Florida and does not display this fire garden, but until they have central Florida. survival trait. The other growth habit that works been properly evaluated and prove Pond pine (Pinus serotina) is a 3- Shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata) is nicely in the rock garden is that of a themselves, the gardener should be pre- needled shade-intolerant pine, but toler- a 2-needled southern yellow pine twisted, sparsely branched, deformed pared for a few disappointments. Mean- ates poorly drained soils. To help ensure with needles 3-4 inches long. Although little tree much like those observed at while, work with the cultivars I have survival of the species after fires, its it has the widest natural distribution of the snow line in alpine settings. These described to develop the backbone of an cones can stay closed with viable seed any of the southern yellow pines, it’s trees are indicative of cold, windy areas alpine rock garden that will be authentic up to ten years and will release the seeds range within Florida includes only the with thin, nutrient-poor soils. They and provide many years of pleasure. CCaalllliittrriiss ccoolluummeellllaarriiss add a sense of authenticity to any rock garden. Several cultivars with these attributes are placed in this descriptive About the author: Born, raised, and category. educated on the east coast, Bob has been Pinus parviflora ‘Pygmy Yatsub- a science teacher for thirty years. His usa’ is a dwarf selection that becomes a interest in and passion for conifers dense, miniature tree with no effort on began in 1974 when he traded a fern the part of its owner. Single trunked fossil for three choice conifers to land- with a central leader and dense branch- scape his home. In 1979 his passion led ing, it grows about 2 inches (5 cm) per to the start of a part-time, mail order year. Its foliage is light green with short, nursery business named Coenosium twisted needles and pronounced winter Gardens. A co-founder of the Conifer buds. Society, Bob served as its first president Pinus strobus ‘Hillside Gem’ was for five years. He and his wife, Dianne, found as a seedling about 1964 by now live in Eatonville, Washington and Layne Ziegenfuss, Hillside Nursery, their garden is a centerpiece of the 2007 Lehighton, Pennsylvania. It is a dwarf, national meeting of the ACS. open tree with sparse, thin branches and

20 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 29 THE AMERICAN CONIFER SOCIETY

AWARDS $1000.00 SCHOLARSHIP 66 Jackson Lane, Bethlehem, CT 06751 By Gerald Kral he American Conifer Society is that he saw on his first visit. Returning pleased to award its 2006, $1000.00 to the United States, Stevens took a sea- TScholarship to Kevin C. Stevens of Indi- sonal position with a landscape and Owners: Dennis and Mary Lou Dodge Phone/Fax 203.266.7783 anapolis, Indiana. The committee build company in 2004. The company www.bethlehemnursery.com [email protected] received several excellent applications specialized in water gardens with a and selecting the best was difficult. Japanese theme. Stevens designed and Stevens is a past and current member installed his first Japanese garden with of ACS. He is training for a career in an emphasis on dwarf conifers. historic landscape preservation and Stevens completed another three- landscape design. month internship at the Holden Joining the American Conifer Arboretum. He then went to the Arnold Society in 2005, Stevens admits to Arboretum of Harvard University for a having a passion for conifers for over a one-year apprentice position. During decade. Years before entering the “green this tenure he worked with the bonsai trade” Stevens visited the Royal Botanic master on the Larz Anderson Bonsai gardens in Kew, London. He happened Collection. This is the oldest cultivated upon a specimen of Araucaria araucana collection in the U.S. and the majority of commonly called the Monkey Puzzle the plants are conifers. In addition to this Tree. He began his conifer odyssey. horticultural training, Stevens is In 2000, Stevens accepted a position currently a student in the Landscape with a pharmaceutical company in Institute at the Arnold Arboretum. On Indianapolis, Indiana. He had the oppor- January 31, 2006, Stevens passed the tunity to purchase his first home. As a International Society of Arboriculture homeowner, he had to maintain the land- Certified Arborists Exam. scape around his home. Having never Stevens has been accepted to attend done this, he took a Master Gardener the “The Japanese Garden” intensive course and awakened a passion for gar- seminar in Kyoto, Japan at the Research dening. After 15 years in public health Center for Japanese Garden Art in and medical research, Stevens decided October of 2006. This is a prestigious to pursue a career in horticulture. seminar, only admitting 25 students After completing the Advanced worldwide each year. Master Gardener Course, Stevens The American Conifer Society is accepted an internship at the Indianapo- honored to help Stevens attend this sem- lis Museum of Art in 2003. He then went inar with our scholarship award. He will to the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew for a represent the American Conifer Society three-month internship. During this at the seminar and promises to write an internship, he was assigned to the area article for the Conifer Quarterly upon that included the Monkey Puzzle tree his return to the States about his experi- ence in Kyoto.

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Do You Have A.C.S.? (ADDICTED CONIFER SYNDROME) reprinted with permission Pine Facts Many of you know that ACS repre- Level 2: Research - After the initial (Genus Pinus) sents the American Conifer Society. awareness, you start researching Through my association with this conifers. This is not an easy task for All species dislike group for the last ten years, I have there is no one book or place to obtain shade. come to realize ACS really stands for all the information. It may start out No pines are native to Addicted Conifer Syndrome. The innocently, reading about the the southern hemisphere. Central Region is well known for the redwoods, giant Sequoias, bristle- Support Group offered to those phy- cones or ginkgos. You join the No other conifer genus has a toholics with a unique weakness for American Conifer Society (ACS) for similar degree of cone variability. the search and research of mutant information and eventually the ACS conifers. At the 1995 ACS National Bulletin becomes the most exciting Meeting in North Carolina, there magazine you get! Krussmann, van There are 110 species – making it the were even meetings for the families Hoey Smith, Swartley, and Welch largest genus of conifers. of those who are addicted (mainly at appear on your Christmas list. shopping malls). Many people ask Many pines have developed a mutualism with “Can you get hooked on these trees Level 3: Acquisition - Reading about animals; such as P. albicaulis, which depends the first time?” Absolutely! When these conifers is simply not enough. on the Clark’s Nutcracker to break open analyzed, there are several levels of You must have them! You try your the cone and bury the seed. addiction to those who are powerless local garden centers and perhaps you about these plants. find a dwarf Alberta spruce at K- Pines are some of the first trees to repopulate an Mart. Tree dreams are common at this area after a fire (often referred to as a pioneer species). Level I: Awareness - This is the initial level. You find yourself driving Pines also serve as protection (shade) for a number of phase where in some way, garden longer distances to get to nurseries to conifers are brought to your attention. purchase unusual plants. Many peo- angiosperms in their early development (often It could be a magazine article on Ed ple are extremely willing to drive a referred to as a nurse species). Rezek or maybe a television program whole day to buy one tree! Family on the Victory Garden about Ed vacations are arranged around these Rezek. Perhaps you were visiting a places and addiction is evident by the place that featured interesting vacation photos where there are more conifers. Rich and I literally stumbled plants than people in the pictures. The into the Hidden Lake Gardens and ultimate rationalization occurs before found “The Harper Collection of Rare the ACS auction. On your way to the and Dwarf Conifers” by accident. auction you say “I'm not going to Compiled by Needless to say, it changed our lives. spend much at the auction this year.” Tom Cox On the way home you mention, “The

22 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 27 PINING AWAY AT RANCHO SANTA ANA Nominations Sought for 2007 BOTANIC GARDEN American Conifer Society Awards of Merit By Tim Thibault Photos by Barbara Eisenstein Every year the American Conifer Society honors its members with Awards of Merit. ancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is an conserved in our seed bank. A single Nominations for next year’s recipients must be received by November 30, 2006. 86-acre living museum in Clare-mont, favorite is difficult to pick, but several RCalifornia dedicated to research, conserva- stand out in different ways. Award of Merit for Development in the Field of Conifers tion and display of the plants of California It could be said that pines are the face and northwest Baja, Mexico. Founded in of the garden. Stands of Pinus torreyana, The criteria for this award include the collecting and displaying of conifers, a 1927 by Susana Bixby Bryant, the garden the Torrey pine, are visible from both willingness to share knowledge of plants, and the enthusiasm and drive to discover moved from Orange County to the present streets that border the garden. The lacy and develop noteworthy cultivars. site in 1951. In addition to a living collec- canopies rise to over seventy feet sup- tion and seed bank, the garden includes an ported by trunks three feet in diameter. In Also taken into consideration are published articles, books, or texts as well as e x c e l l e n t addition to its grandeur, P. torreyana is new or improved propagation techniques and designs for the use of conifers. research library and its herbarium is one of also interesting for its natural distribu- the largest collections of preserved plant tion, limited to populations in coastal San Marvin and Emelie Snyder Award of Merit for Dedicated Support of the ACS specimens in North America. The herbari- Diego and on Santa Rosa Island. Only a um at Rancho Santa Ana houses 1.1 mil- few thousand plants occur in the two na- This award recognizes those who have made outstanding contributions to the lion specimens, including cone and wood tive stands. Rancho Santa Ana Botanic American Conifer Society through their service, enthusiasm, commitment and collections. Garden holds five collections from the promotion of membership in the Society. The Living Collection features the two sites, although none compete with Desert Garden, Coastal and Island the sentimental value of the San Diego Also, this award acknowledges those who have been deeply involved in the Garden, Riparian Woodland, Oak Grove, collection made by Philip Munz himself. activities of the Society, organizationally or otherwise. Container Garden and Cultivar Garden in !" the southern 30 acres. The northern 56 It could be said that pines acres is arranged ecologically by plant are the face of the garden. To be considered, your nomination must be accompanied by an outline of the community, following the classification nominee’s contributions in the appropriate category. If you wish to nominate system of our former director, Philip As visitors enter the garden, two very a member for either of these awards, include your candidate’s name, address, Munz. Conifer enthusiasts will particu- different looking pines from the same and phone number as well as a brief description of why the person is deserving larly enjoy the Yellow Pine Forest, seedlot greet them. One specimen of of the award. Pinyon-Juniper Woodland and Northern Pinus quadrifolia, variously known as Juniper Woodland communities. the four-needle pinyon pine or the Parry Please send your nominations to: Conifers, especially pines, are a pinyon pine, is dense and short, while the Don Howse significant part of California flora with other has a more open habit, just over 40 about 60 species falling into our collec- feet tall. Many garden visitors think these 41370 SE Thomas Road tion guidelines. The living and seed two plants are different species! Both collections jointly hold over 50 species of have tight fascicles of three to five Sandy, OR 97055 conifers with a total of about 2800 taxa, (frequently four, hence the name) blue- or different kinds of plants, in the green and white needles and a generally Phone/FAX: 503 668-5834 collection. Twenty-four taxa of pines are columnar form. Another stand of over 70 represented in the garden and 14 taxa are plants of the same species elsewhere in Email: [email protected]

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continued from page 21 Susan & Rich Eyre’s Favorite Pines Whatever your area of horticultural When we broaden our exposure, we interests, Rich and I would suggest that increase our capacity to achieve more. you join a society made up of members Life is not what you take but what you 1. Pinus parviflora ‘Blue Wave’ 3. Pinus cembra ‘Glauca Nana’ Swiss with similar interests so that you can leave behind. For those of you with Japanese white Pine stone pine learn from experts of that field. There, Addicted Conifer Syndrome – JUST ‘Blue Wave’ is a unique Japanese white ‘Glauca Nana’ is a strong growing culti- you can acquire the vocabulary neces- SAY YES! pine with a curving trunk. It is also var of Swiss stone pine and is the most sary to ask intelligent questions and known as Pinus parviflora ‘Select’. Jean shade tolerant of the pines. The gener- learn by listening. The great asset of Iseli made selections for a prostrate ally narrow habit and superior plant the American Conifer Society is its Editors Note: Having Susan Eyre cap- form of Japanese white pine from a vigor make it a superior specimen pine members: gardeners, university types, tive for her preceeding ACS article, we group of seedlings. This tree has dra- for small to mid-sized yards. This short nurserymen, and collectors. asked her to give us five top pine recom- matic form in a wind swept habit with needled, slow-growing, blue-green For us, exposure to experts such as mendations for a garden. The list that fabulous bicolor needles. A must for dwarf makes a natural growing bonsai Chub Harper, Jerry Morris, Joe she and her husband, Rich, came up your garden! in the garden. Stupka, Ed Rezek, Tom Dilatush, Ed with follows. Long-time members of the Pinus parviflora Hasselkus, Pete Girard, Al and Jeff American Conifer Society, Susan and Pinus x Forinash established a network for Rich are owners of Rich’s Foxwillow ‘Blue Wave’ ‘(strobus x ayacahuite)’ education. We became part of the next Pines nursery in Woodstock, Illinois. generation of Baby Broomers with Randy Dykstra, Denny Hermsen, Jeff Rathje, and Dave Horst. This group helped launch the Central Region at the dedication of Chub’s Heartland Collection at the Bicklehaupt Arboretum. Chub and Charlene Harris took over from there to start the Central Region. Generation X is paving the way for the next age group with collector/nurserymen James Wick, Darren Heimbecker, and Jason Smith. 2. Pinus x ‘(strobus x ayacahuite)’ hybrid pine Our association with the This hybrid pine has unique long, silver- blue needles. It has an attractive pyram- members of the American idal, dense habit and does not burn in 4. Pinus virginiana ‘Wate’s Golden’ the wind like Pinus strobus. This hybrid Virginia pine Conifer Society has enhanced seedling came from Ithaca New York ‘Wate’s Golden’ is a strong grower in our lives both personally and and was selected by Earl Cully (who the Midwest and has a phenomenal dark named ‘Heritage’ river birch) and Dick gold color in the winter when the tem- professionally. It has expanded Jaynes (the mountain laurel expert) perature drops. What a show with that from an experimental block of trees. intense color and spectacular wind our ability to dream. swept appearance. This cousin of Pinus

continued on page 31

24 CONIFER QUARTERLY Vol. 23 No. 3 Vol. 23 No. 3 CONIFER QUARTERLY 25 Pinus coulteri bud m

u See Tim Thibault’s t e r article. o b r A l a n o i t a N . S . U Pinus mugo ‘Aurea’ foliage m

See Susan Martin’s u t e r o

article “The Luminous b r A l a

Winter Gold Pines”. n o i t a N . S . U n i e t s

Pinus sylvestris ‘Aurea’ foliage n e s i E a r a b r m a u t B e r o b r A l a n o i t a N . S . U Pinus strobus ‘Winter Gold’ foliage . c n I , y r e s r u N s m e n a i h P c n w i F o l l i t r w e x b o o F R s ’ h c i

R Pinus mugo ‘Little Delight’ Pinus pumila ‘Dwarf Blue’ See Robert Fincham’s article inside. Conifer Quarterly Vol. 23 No. 3 Summer 2006 h o r G s i n n e D Araucaria heterophylla See Dennis Groh’s article inside. m a h c n i F t r e b h o o r R G s i n

Pinus mugo ‘Carsten Wintergold’ n e See Robert Fincham’s article inside. D