Large conifer with broad pyramidal crown, 20 - 25 m tall. When young, the crown has a regular structure, older trees are somewhat untidier. The bark is light grey to grey and remains smooth for a long time. Only when older does the bark come off in plates. The young twigs are reddish brown with needles radiating in all directions, an important and distinctive feature of this species. They are perpendicular to the twig. The stiff needles are light blue-grey and 1 - 2 cm long. They are noticeably lighter in colour than the species. The large, narrow cylindrical cones are light purplish green. Suitable for parks and large gardens. Grows on all soils provided they are well drained. In terms of position, it is more tolerant than the species and will also grow on light acidic soil. Tolerates drought.