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Description
Pinus Flexilis, commonly known as the Limber Pine or Rocky Mountain White Pine, is a species of evergreen tree native to the western United States and Canada. It is a member of the Pinaceae family and is known for its flexible branches and long, slender needles.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The Limber Pine can grow up to 80 feet tall and 30 feet wide. Its branches are flexible and can be trained to grow in different directions. The needles are long and slender, measuring between 2 and 4 inches, and are typically blue-green in color. The tree produces oval-shaped cones that measure between 3 and 8 inches in length.
Care Guide
The Pinus Flexilis thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but too much can stunt its growth. The tree requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to fertilize the tree in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. The Limber Pine is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Limber Pine is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including pine needle scale, pine sawflies, and white pine blister rust. These pests and diseases can cause damage to the tree’s needles and bark, and can ultimately lead to its death. It is important to monitor the tree regularly for signs of infestation or disease, and to take immediate action if any issues are detected.
Habitat
The Limber Pine is native to the western United States and Canada, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including mountain slopes, rocky outcrops, and subalpine forests. It is a hardy tree that can tolerate harsh conditions, including drought, high altitudes, and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Limber Pine grow?
A: The Limber Pine is a slow-growing tree, with an average growth rate of 6 to 12 inches per year.
Q: Can the Limber Pine be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the Limber Pine in containers, it is not recommended, as the tree requires a lot of space to grow and thrive.
Q: Is the Limber Pine a good choice for a windbreak?
A: Yes, the Limber Pine is a good choice for a windbreak, as its flexible branches can withstand strong winds.
Q: Do deer like to eat the needles of the Limber Pine?
A: No, deer typically do not like to eat the needles of the Limber Pine, as they are tough and bitter.
Related Plants
- Pinus contorta (Lodgepole Pine)
- Pinus ponderosa (Ponderosa Pine)
- Pinus monticola (Western White Pine)
References
- “Pinus flexilis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284014&isprofile=0&genus=Pinus&plantnumber=1.
- “Limber Pine.” Colorado State Forest Service. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://csfs.colostate.edu/colorado-forests/tree-identification/limber-pine/.
- “Limber Pine.” USDA Forest Service. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/pinfle/all.html.
