The
genus Sciadopitys
A monotypic genus - an evergreen tree with scale leaves and glossy-green fused pairs of leaves arranged in definite whorls and giving the tree a distinctive appearance -- hence its name.
Sciadopitys verticillata,
Siebold & Zuccarini
Umbrella Pine
Tree native to Japan where it attains a height of over 100 feet. Has a marked pyramidal habit especially when young. The fused leaves are unusual and characteristic and there is some speculation as to their true nature. The tree is not particularly hardy in this country if exposed to cold winds.