Twoneedle Pinyon

(Pinus edulis)

Twoneedle Pinyon (Pinus edulis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pinus edulis, commonly known as Twoneedle Pinyon or simply Piñon, is an evergreen tree native to the arid regions of the American West and Southwest, including the Colorado Plateau and the southern Rocky Mountains. It is adapted to semi-arid climates, often found in pinyon-juniper woodlands at elevations between 4,500 and 7,500 feet. Typically, it reaches a height of 16-40 feet (5-12 meters) and a width of 10-20 feet (3-6.1 meters), with a rounded crown and a short, often contorted trunk.

Twoneedle Pinyon is valued for its edible seeds, known as pine nuts, which are a staple in Native American cuisine and are harvested commercially. The tree’s slow growth rate and ability to thrive in poor soils make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping. It is also used for reforestation in its native range due to its drought tolerance. Twoneedle Pinyon requires full sun exposure and well-drained soils, and it is highly adaptable to different soil types, provided they are not waterlogged. It is relatively low-maintenance once established, but it can be susceptible to pests such as the pinyon pine beetle and diseases like root rot in poorly drained soils.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 16-40 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Rabbit Resistant, Rock Garden, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Pinyon-juniper woodlands and arid regions of the American Southwest

Other Names

Common Names: Pignolia , Pinyon , Pinyon Pine , American Pinon , Colorado Pinyon , Rocky Mountain Piñon , Nut Pine , Piñon Pine , Two-Leaf Pinyon , Two-Needle Pinyon

Scientific Names: Pinus edulis , Pinus cembroides var. edulis , Pinus cembroides subsp. edulis , Pinus edulis var. edulis , Caryopitys edulis , Pinus monophylla var. edulis

GBIF Accepted Name: Pinus edulis Engelm.