Native to Japan, the scale-like leaves (needles) are bright green during spring and summer and slightly dull green during fall and winter. Lower branches are shed when the tree is young, revealing reddish-brown bark that peels in long strips. Inner branches often die out; encouraging new growth with annual pruning. It has a round or pyramidal growth habit and is extremely hardy. It has a very slow growth rate which is why it is hard to find. Keep outdoors