Pinus echinata, commonly known as Shortleaf Pine, is a deciduous conifer native to a variety of habitats including open pine-oak woodlands, dry upland ridges, and occasionally in wetter habitats alongside streams in the southeastern United States. It can reach up to 98 feet in height and is notable for its straight trunk and a rounded, open crown. The needles are typically 3-5 inches long, in bundles of two or three, and the tree produces small, ovoid cones that are 1.5-2.5 inches long. Shortleaf Pine is particularly adapted to fire, which helps to maintain its habitat by reducing competition from other tree species.

Shortleaf Pine is valued for its wood, which is used in construction and for making paper. It is also appreciated for its ability to grow in poor soils and its resistance to many diseases and pests, making it a low-maintenance choice for reforestation projects and natural landscaping. In cultivation, it prefers full sun but can tolerate a range of soil types, from well-drained sandy soils to heavy clay. It is less commonly used in urban settings due to its size and the potential for needle drop.CC BY-SA 4.0