Pinus leucodermis Compact Gem

Pinus leucodermis 'Compact Gem' is a small Bosnian pine that deserves to be discovered for its ease of cultivation and adaptability to a wide range of soils and climates. Forming more or less a pyramid, or even a cone, its dark green evergreen foliage and its graphic aspect are decorative all year round. An easy plant to grow, it will find its place in a flower bed, a rock garden, or even on a terrace, in a container. Very hardy, withstanding maritime winds quite well, and resistant to drought once well established, it only requires ordinary, well-drained soil.

Pinus heldreichii (synonym Pinus leucodermis) is an evergreen plant of the Pinaceae family native to the mountains of southeastern Europe, from southwestern Bulgaria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, through Macedonia, to northern Greece and southern Italy. It grows between 900 and 2,500 metres (2953 and 8000 feet) in altitude and reaches heights of 25 to 35 metres (82 to 115 feet) and forms a trunk with a diameter of 2 metres (7 feet) in its natural environment. A champion of longevity, this conifer with a well-groomed conical habit can live for more than 1000 years.

The 'Compact Gem' variety is clearly distinct from the wild species due to its reduced size and much denser vegetation. Its growth is slow, reaching its maturity after 20 years, at a height of 2 metres (7 feet) with a width of 1.50 metres. It grows with a pyramidal to conical habit, which can be accentuated by light annual pruning with secateurs. The Bosnian pine belongs to the group of two-needled pines, with the needles grouped in pairs on the branches. They are dark green, rather long, and especially stiff and pointed. It is therefore better to avoid planting this conifer near a pathway! Very dense, surrounding the branches, they form aesthetic brush-like structures. The brown bark is decorative, although patience is required to fully enjoy it due to the slow growth of this miniature variety. 'Compact Gem' is certainly not the most beautiful of conifers, but it is particularly easy to grow. Hardy to at least -20°C (1°F), it grows in most soils, from neutral to acidic, and even slightly calcareous, with its only requirement being good drainage. Not demanding, it therefore grows in most soils, even poor ones, and tolerates drought once well rooted. It thrives in full sun but will tolerate partial shade in hot climates.

The Bosnian pine 'Compact Gem' will find its place in all gardens, even small ones, and will bring much satisfaction over time. Planted in a container, this conifer is ideal for decorating balconies or terraces without causing any trouble for many years. In the garden, it can be planted in rock gardens or flower beds, combined with other conifers or shrubs. Its dark green foliage will enhance light-coloured flowers or foliage. The many varieties of Potentilla fruticosa, which are as easy to grow as it is, will brighten its dark green mass with their cheerful blooms. In slightly moist soil, Cercis canadensis 'Merlot', a Canadian redbud with heart-shaped purple foliage and pink blooms appearing on its bare wood, will create a superb contrast with our pine. It can be planted alongside it without risking any interference, as it has a slow growth rate. And for lovers of strong contrasts, nothing beats a Berberis thunbergii 'Golden Carpet', a spreading ground cover with bright yellow foliage that is just as undemanding as 'Compact Gem'.