Longleaf Pine
(Pinus palustris)
Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris)
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kcthetc1
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Image By:
kcthetc1
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Copyright:
Public Domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: kcthetc1 | License Type: Public Domain | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/zero/1.0/ | Rights Holder: kcthetc1 | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2021-11-17T15:59:41-08:00 |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Pinus palustris, commonly known as Longleaf Pine, is an evergreen tree native to the Southeastern United States, particularly found in the coastal plains, sandhills, and flatwoods. It is well adapted to the fire-prone longleaf pine savanna ecosystem, where it plays a crucial ecological role. The tree can reach heights of 30–35 meters (98–115 feet) with a trunk diameter of up to 0.7 meters (28 inches). The bark is characteristically thick, reddish-brown, and scaly, providing some fire resistance. Longleaf Pine is notable for its long, slender needles that can measure up to 18 inches in length, grouped in fascicles of three. Its large, conical seed cones mature in the fall, approximately 18 months after pollination.
The Longleaf Pine is valued for its straight, tall trunk and its ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils. It is often used in reforestation projects, for timber, and as an ornamental tree in large spaces. This species is drought-tolerant and requires full sun exposure with well-drained soils. While it is slow-growing, its longevity and resistance to pests and diseases make it a low-maintenance choice for suitable areas. However, its susceptibility to pine beetle attacks and its need for periodic fires to maintain ecosystem health can be challenging in cultivation.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Longleaf Pine is valued for its straight, tall trunk and its ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils. It is often used in reforestation projects, for timber, and as an ornamental tree in large spaces. This species is drought-tolerant and requires full sun exposure with well-drained soils. While it is slow-growing, its longevity and resistance to pests and diseases make it a low-maintenance choice for suitable areas. However, its susceptibility to pine beetle attacks and its need for periodic fires to maintain ecosystem health can be challenging in cultivation.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree
- Height: 50-80 feet
- Width: 18-35 feet
- Growth Rate: Rapid
- Flower Color: N/A
- Flowering Season: Non-Flowering
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fragrant, Low Maintenance, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant
Natural Habitat
Coastal plains, sandhills, and flatwoods ecosystem
Other Names
Common Names:
Scientific Names: , Pinus palustris, Pinus palmeri, Pinus australis, Pinus longifolia, Pinus georgica, Pinus palustris subsp. neogigantea, Pinus australis var. excelsa, Pinus palmieri, Pinus palustris var. excelsa
GBIF Accepted Name: Pinus palustris Mill.