Korean Pine ‘Kohouts Icebreaker’ 15/30cm (3L)

Korean Pine Kohouts Icebreaker *Pinus koraiensis* is a distinctive dwarf conifer that adds winter charm to gardens throughout the year. This compact pine variety features remarkable twisted needles that create a frosty, ice-kissed look. As a slow-growing tree, it naturally forms a tidy, rounded shape with minimal effort, which suits gardeners wanting a permanent feature that stays within bounds.

This variety usually grows to just 1 metre in height and width after 10 years, developing at a leisurely pace. Its small stature makes it suitable for various garden settings, including compact urban plots, rockeries, mixed plantings, or containers on patios and balconies. The blue-green foliage offers constant appeal, while the twisted needle formation provides distinctive texture that stands out across all seasons.

What makes this tree particularly appealing is its ability to bring character and visual interest to outdoor spaces. The compact, globe-like habit and distinctive needle arrangement naturally draw attention, creating an intriguing focal point in garden schemes. The sculptural quality of the twisted foliage complements both structured and relaxed garden styles.

Many gardeners favour Kohouts Icebreaker for its undemanding character and robust nature. After settling in, it tolerates various soil conditions and manages urban pollution well, which suits city gardens. It also shows good resistance to common pests and diseases, reducing ongoing maintenance requirements.

This pine adapts to different garden roles effectively. It brings lasting appeal to rock gardens, makes an unusual container specimen, or provides evergreen backbone to mixed plantings. You might use it as a single statement piece in confined areas, or group several together for greater impact.

For those wanting to introduce permanent structure and a hint of winter enchantment to their gardens, Korean Pine Kohouts Icebreaker proves an excellent selection. Its appealing foliage, neat growth habit, and straightforward requirements make it a worthwhile choice for any garden, particularly when seeking something genuinely distinctive.

Caring for Korean Pine ‘Kohouts Icebreaker’ is straightforward, which is great news for gardeners. Plant it in a spot that gets full sun to light shade. It prefers well-drained soil but can adapt to various soil types, including poor or rocky soils. Water regularly when it’s first planted to help it establish. Once settled, it’s quite drought-tolerant but will appreciate occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. You don’t need to feed it often – a light application of slow-release fertiliser in spring is enough. Pruning isn’t necessary to maintain its compact shape, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches if needed. Keep an eye out for any signs of needle browning or dieback, which could indicate stress. ‘Kohouts Icebreaker’ is very hardy and can cope with winters without extra protection, even in exposed or coastal areas.

**Ultimate height**
0.5–1 metres

**Time to ultimate height**
5–10 years

**Ultimate spread**
0.5–1 metres