Pine, Ponderosa
Pinus ponderosa
Pinaceae - Pine

Description

Leaves: Needles in groups of 2 and 3; 3" to 10" long; yellow-green; less sharp-pointed than those of Austrian pine; somewhat twisted; evergreen, remain on tree 3-6 years.

Twigs/buds: Twigs stout; orange-brown; smell like turpentine when crushed. Buds about 1/2" long; usually covered with resin droplets; cinnamon-brown colored.

Flowers/fruit: Monoecious. Fruit a woody cone; very short to no stalk; 3" to 6" long; reddish-brown; each scale armed with a short, sharp spine.

Bark: Dark brown to black on younger trees; older trees have large, thick plates, orange to cinnamon-red, separated by deep furrows; inner bark has vanilla smell.

Wood: Very important; sapwood white to yellow; heartwood yellow to light brown; growth rings distinct; used for lumber, millwork, and railroad ties.

General: Native to mountainous areas in southern two-thirds of Utah and throughout the West. Normal growth rate is relatively slow. Resists fires with thick bark. Drought resistant. Shade intolerant.

Landscape Use: Occasionally planted when a large, long-needled pine is desired in the landscape. Should be planted more. Austrian pine is similar in appearance and more readily available in nurseries. Zones 3-7.

Cultivars: 'Canyon Ferry', 'Gumdrop', 'Hiwan', 'Little Joe', 'Marquerite', 'Mary Ann Heacock', 'Pendula', 'Tortuosa'.

Characteristics

General

Family Pinaceae - Pine
Cultivar Availability Yes
Hardiness Zone 3-7
Type Conifer
Utah Native Yes

Growth

Growth Rate Medium
Mature Height High
Longevity High
Is Good Under Power Lines No
Crown Shapes Pyramidal

Ornamental

Bark Yes
Fall Color No
Flowers No
Foliage Yes
Fruit No

Tolerance

Shade Low
Salt Medium
Drought High
Poor Drainage Low
Alkalinity Medium
Transplanting Medium