Contents
Description
Pinus Strobus Blue Shag, also known as Blue Shag Eastern White Pine, is a cultivar of the Eastern White Pine tree. This coniferous evergreen tree is native to eastern North America and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The tree can grow up to 50-80 feet tall, with a spread of 20-40 feet. The Blue Shag cultivar is prized for its unique blue-green needles and bushy habit, which makes it a great addition to any landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Coniferophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The Pinus Strobus Blue Shag has a unique blue-green color to its needles, which are soft and flexible. The needles grow in clusters of five and can reach up to 5 inches long. The tree has a bushy habit and the branches grow outwards, giving it a rounded shape. The bark of the tree is smooth and grey in color, with a slightly scaly texture.
Care Guide
Water: The Pinus Strobus Blue Shag prefers moist, well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during the first few years after planting.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen.Soil: The Blue Shag cultivar prefers acidic, well-draining soil. If your soil is too alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Pinus Strobus Blue Shag is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pinus Strobus Blue Shag is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including pine wilt disease, white pine weevil, and pine needle scale. Regular inspection and treatment by a professional arborist can help prevent and treat these issues.
Habitat
The Pinus Strobus Blue Shag is native to eastern North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests and wetlands. The tree prefers cooler climates and is often found in mountainous regions.
Question and Answer
Q: How fast does the Pinus Strobus Blue Shag grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 1-2 feet per year.Q: Can the Pinus Strobus Blue Shag be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.Q: When is the best time to plant the Pinus Strobus Blue Shag?
A: The best time to plant the tree is in the spring, after the last frost.Q: How often should I prune the Pinus Strobus Blue Shag?
A: Prune the tree in the winter or early spring, as needed to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
- Pinus Strobus
- Pinus Sylvestris
- Pinus Nigra
References
- “Pinus Strobus Blue Shag.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b350.
- “Pinus Strobus Blue Shag.” The Spruce, 24 Aug. 2020, www.thespruce.com/pinus-strobus-blue-shag-profile-3269308.
- “Eastern White Pine.” USDA Forest Service, www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/pinstr/all.html.
