1986 Seed-Grown Japanese Black Pine Pre-Bonsai with Sumo Trunk

1986 Seed-Grown Japanese Black Pine Pre-Bonsai with Sumo Trunk

Due to California agricultural restrictions, this tree cannot be shipped to California. These restrictions are imposed by the State of California and apply to many growers shipping plants from regulated areas.

This is the exact tree shown in the photographs.

We do not list many pre-bonsai because Peter, John and several other people around here always want to keep developing them. We are making an exception for this one.

This Japanese Black Pine was started from seed in 1986 by Gerald Rainville in Canada. Finding raw material with this kind of age and known history is not easy, especially in such a compact tree.

The needles were not cut before the photographs, so the trunk is easy to miss in the full-tree view. We moved the needles aside in several of the close-up photos so you can see what is hiding underneath. This bad boy has a short, heavy sumo trunk with mature bark, a wide base and plenty of low branches to work with.

John Romano has done some light styling and set several of the branches. It is still pre-bonsai and is not being sold as a finished tree. The value is in the age, trunk and available branch structure. Its next owner can decide how compact and refined the final design should become.

Tree Details

• Common Name: Japanese Black Pine
• Botanical Name: Pinus thunbergii
• Origin: Seed grown in Canada by Gerald Rainville
• Started: 1986
• Initial Styling: John Romano
• Development Stage: Pre-bonsai
• Height: Approximately 11 inches from the soil line to the apex
• Spread: Approximately 12 inches
• Pot: Approximately 9-inch Tokoname grow pot
• Ships From: Massachusetts
• Photographed: September 29, 2026
• Availability: One of a kind. You will receive the exact tree shown.

Where to Take It Next

This tree gives you several options. The canopy can be reduced and compacted around the heavy trunk, or selected branches can be developed further before the final design is chosen. Future work may include branch selection, needle management and additional wiring, but there is no reason to rush an old pine.

Japanese Black Pine Care

Japanese Black Pine is an outdoor species that should receive full sun and good airflow. Water thoroughly when the soil begins to approach dryness, making sure water drains freely from the pot. The existing wire should be checked regularly and removed before it begins cutting into the branches.

Shipping Confidence

This tree ships from our Massachusetts nursery. The Tokoname grow pot is secured inside the box, and the trunk, branches, needles and soil are carefully protected for transit.

Photography Note

Photographed September 29, 2026. The needles were intentionally left uncut. Several photographs show the foliage being moved aside to provide a clearer view of the trunk and interior structure.

Please Note

This is developing pre-bonsai material and not a finished or show-ready tree. Its shape and appearance will change as it is pruned, wired and refined.

All trees are sold as-is. All sales are final. No refunds, returns or exchanges. Once the tree leaves our nursery, its care is your responsibility. Have questions? Just reach out. We’re happy to help.