Singleleaf Pinyon

(Pinus monophylla)

Singleleaf Pinyon (Pinus monophylla)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Pinus monophylla, commonly known as Singleleaf Pinyon, is an evergreen tree native to the Great Basin region of the United States, including parts of California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and New Mexico, as well as the northern part of Baja California in Mexico. It is adapted to arid environments, often found in pinyon-juniper woodlands at elevations between 1,200 to 2,300 meters. This species is notable for being the only pine with a single needle per fascicle. Singleleaf Pinyon typically grows to a height of 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) and a width of 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters), with a slow growth rate that contributes to its longevity.

The Singleleaf Pinyon is valued for its edible seeds, known as pine nuts, which are a traditional food source for Native American cultures and are used in a variety of culinary dishes. Its compact size and resilience to drought make it suitable for xeriscaping and as an ornamental tree in arid landscapes. It requires minimal maintenance once established and thrives in full sun or part shade, with low water needs and well-drained soils. While it is generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to bark beetles and dwarf mistletoe. The tree’s wood is also used for fuel and construction purposes. Due to its slow growth, it is not commonly used in fast-paced urban plantings but is appreciated in naturalistic settings and restoration projects.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 15-30 feet
  • Width: 6-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Very Low, Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

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, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Great Basin region of the United States and northern Baja California, in pinyon-juniper woodlands at elevations between 1,200 to 2,300 meters

Other Names

Common Names: One-Leaf Pinyon , Single-Leaf Pinyon , Singleleaf Pinyon Pine , Singleleaf Pine , Nut Pine , One-Leaf Pine , Einnadlige Weymouthskiefer , Arizona-Kiefer , Einnadelige Kiefer , Piñon

Scientific Names: Pinus monophylla , Pinus californiarum , Pinus monophylla subsp. californiarum , Pinus edulis var. fallax , Pinus cembroides var. monophylla , Pinus monophylla var. fallax , Pinus fallax , Pinus monophylla subsp. fallax , Pinus monophylla var. californiarum , Pinus californiarum subsp. fallax

GBIF Accepted Name: Pinus monophylla Torr. & Frém.