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Description
Pinus Echinata, commonly known as Shortleaf Pine, is a species of pine tree native to the eastern United States. It is a medium-sized tree, typically growing up to 20-30 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 0.5-1 meter. The bark is thin and scaly, and the branches are slender and slightly drooping. Its needles are in clusters of two or three and are 7-11 cm long. The cones are 4-7 cm long and have a number of sharp prickles on the scales.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
Shortleaf Pine has a pyramidal shape when young, but as it ages, it develops a more irregular form. The needles are slender and flexible, ranging in color from bright green to dark yellow-green. The cones are ovoid or spherical, with a reddish-brown color when mature. The bark is reddish-brown and becomes deeply furrowed with age. The wood is pale yellow-brown with a straight grain, and it is commonly used for construction and pulpwood.
Care Guide
Shortleaf Pine is a hardy tree that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, it does require some care to thrive:
- Water: Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring, before new growth appears, with a slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen.
- Soil: Prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil.
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Shortleaf Pine is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases:
- Pine Bark Beetles: These beetles bore into the bark and can cause extensive damage.
- Pine Sawflies: These insects feed on the needles and can defoliate the tree.
- Pine Wilt: A fungal disease that can kill the tree.
- Pine Root Rot: Another fungal disease that can cause root damage and kill the tree.
Habitat
Shortleaf Pine grows in a variety of habitats, from dry upland forests to wet bottomlands. It is found in the eastern United States, from New York south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma. It is an important timber species and is used for lumber, pulpwood, and fuelwood.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the average height of a Shortleaf Pine?
A: Shortleaf Pine typically grows up to 20-30 meters tall.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Shortleaf Pine?
A: Shortleaf Pine is susceptible to pine bark beetles, pine sawflies, pine wilt, and pine root rot.
Q: Can Shortleaf Pine tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Shortleaf Pine is a hardy tree that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Shortleaf Pine?
A: Shortleaf Pine can grow in USDA zones 6-9.
Related Plants
- Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus)
- Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda)
- Longleaf Pine (Pinus palustris)
- Pitch Pine (Pinus rigida)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Pinus echinata Mill. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PIEC
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pinus echinata. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279753
- National Wildlife Federation. (n.d.). Shortleaf Pine. Retrieved from https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Plants-and-Fungi/Shortleaf-Pine
