Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) [PY-nus STROE-bus]

Pinus strobus, commonly known as the Eastern white pine, is a majestic, towering conifer native to the eastern regions of North America. This stately tree is renowned for its graceful, pyramidal form and soft, silvery-green foliage that turns a warm, golden hue in the fall.

Growing to impressive heights of 50-80 feet, with a spread of 20-35 feet, the Eastern white pine is one of the tallest pine trees in eastern North America. Its needles, which grow in bundles of five, are soft to the touch and arranged in a spiral pattern along the branches, creating a lush, textured appearance.

One of the defining characteristics of Pinus strobus is its distinctive, reddish-brown bark, which develops a scaly, fissured texture as the tree matures. This bark, combined with the tree's elegant, tiered branching structure, gives the Eastern white pine a stately, majestic presence in the landscape.

In addition to its ornamental value, the Eastern white pine has a long history of practical use. Its straight, strong wood has been prized for construction, furniture, and even musical instruments, while the tree's resin has been used in the production of turpentine and other products.

Adaptable to a wide range of soil types and growing conditions, the Eastern white pine is a versatile choice for landscaping. It is often used as a specimen tree, windbreak, or privacy screen, and its fast growth rate and tolerance for full sun to partial shade make it a popular selection for residential and commercial settings.

Whether admired for its towering presence, soft foliage, or historical significance, Pinus strobus is a beloved, iconic tree that has long been a defining feature of the eastern North American landscape.

• Missouri Botanical Garden
• USDA
• USDA Northeastern Area
• Virginia Tech Department of Forest Resources
• Wikipedia

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