Pinus peuce Aureovariegata - Macedonian Pine

Pinus peuce 'Aureovariegata', a variety of Macedonian Pine, is a small conifer with slow but regular growth, which shows an elegant, pyramidal and then more conical habit, supported by initially horizontal branches that straighten over time. Its very bright, variegated foliage of gold and grey-green, is composed of long needles, while its smooth, brown-grey bark exfoliates on mature subjects. It is perfect for small spaces, whether isolated or in a mass planting, and in a large rockery. This very hardy species adapts to any well-drained and moist soil, to a sunny exposure, and withstands wind very well.

Pinus peuce, also called Balkan Pine, is part of the group of white pines, like Pinus strobus.  It is a plant of the Pinaceae family native to mountainous areas of Albania, Macedonia, Bulgaria and northern Greece. In its natural environment, at an altitude between 600 and 2,200m (1968 and 7000ft), this species exceeds 25m (82ft) in height. In cultivation, it will reach about 20m (66ft) in height and 6m (20ft) in width, with a rather slow growth.

The cultivar 'Aureovariegata' distinguishes itself by its very small size and beautiful variegated foliage. Its growth of about 10cm (4in) per year, slowing down a little each year, will slowly reach a height of 2m (7ft) and a width of 1.2m (4ft). Its bark, brown-grey and smooth, exfoliates over the years. Its young branches are shiny grey-green, then they become brown-grey. The needles, golden or green, rather thick, 5 to 8cm (2 to 3in) long, develop at their ends, grouped in fives, arranged in tufts, and radially attached around the branches.

Easy to grow and not very demanding in terms of soil, the Macedonian Pine 'Aureovariegata' is a conifer that does not require pruning, suitable for small spaces. It will find its place in a small garden, from north to south (not too dry) of France, as its mountain origins do not prevent it from flourishing under very different climates. It will look good as a solitary plant, or planted in groups of 3 near an entrance, or animate a large rockery. It goes well with large stones, the geometric lines of swimming pools and masonry works. It can be associated with prostrate dwarf conifers (Juniperus horizontalis 'Blue Chip'), globular (Picea abies 'Little Gem'), or columnar (Juniperus communis 'Sentinel'). The real graphic qualities of conifers naturally impose themselves in the design of a contemporary garden. These living plants, with their reassuring permanence, structurally and durably shape a flowerbed, mark the paths, border the terrace, easily replacing the strong presence of trimmed boxwood or holly. The key is to play with volumes and colours.