Longleaf pine
Pinus palustris 路 Pinaceae 路 also Georgia pine, Southern yellow pine, Heart pine
The long-lived pine of the fire-maintained savannas that once covered the Southeast, with the longest needles (to 18 inches) and largest cones of any eastern pine. Seedlings sit in a grass-like tuft for several years before shooting up, then grow into straight 60-100 foot trees that resist wind and fusiform rust better than other pines. Needs acidic sand and full sun.
Where it stands
Native
- 馃嚭馃嚫 United States 路 Also native in: VA (USDA PLANTS distribution)source
- 馃嚭馃嚫 AL, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 AR, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 FL, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 GA, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 LA, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 MS, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 NC, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 SC, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 TX, United States 路 Native to the far southeast corner of Texas; not suited to Central Texas soilssource
Care
Plant containerized seedlings in full sun on sandy, well-drained acidic soil and be patient through the grass stage. Water the first summer only. No pruning needed. Few pest problems; keep needle litter cleared near buildings because it burns readily. Avoid alkaline clay or limestone sites.
Benefits
Good for