Variations 
var. hondoensis
This tree varies from the species with reddish-brown branchlets that have shorter needle-like leaves with an acute to obtuse apex. It is naturally found growing in the high mountains of Honshu in Japan.

var. microsperma
This coniferous tree varies from the species by having yellowish-brown branchlets that are almost glabrous and produces cones that are up to 60 mm (2⅜ in) long by 28 mm (1⅛ in) wide which contain ovate to elliptical seed scales. It is naturally found growing in the mountains and adjoining river valleys from Mongolia to Japan and eastern Russia at an altitude of 300 to 800 m (2500 ft).

var. komarovii
This coniferous tree varies from the species by having glabrous yellowish branchlets and produces cones that 40 mm (1⅝ in) long by 20 mm (¾ in) wide and containing rhombic seed scales. It is naturally found growing in the mountains of Korea to eastern Russia at an altitude of 600 m to 1800 m.