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Description
Pinus Ponderosa Var. Scopulorum, commonly known as the Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine, is a species of pine tree native to the western United States. It is a coniferous evergreen tree that can grow up to 60-125 feet tall and 1-3 feet in diameter. The bark of the tree is thick and deeply furrowed, with a reddish-brown color. The needles of the tree are long and slender, measuring up to 10 inches in length, and grow in clusters of three.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pinophyta |
| Class | Pinopsida |
| Order | Pinales |
| Family | Pinaceae |
| Genus | Pinus |
Appearance
The Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine has a distinct appearance, with a tall, straight trunk and a broad, pyramidal shape. The tree’s needles are typically a bright green color and can remain on the tree for up to three years before falling off. The tree’s cones are also distinctive, measuring up to 6 inches in length and featuring a curved shape and a prickly texture. The cones are typically brown in color and can remain on the tree for several years.
Care Guide
When caring for Pinus Ponderosa Var. Scopulorum, it is important to pay attention to its water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.
- Water: The tree requires moderate watering, with regular deep watering during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils, but can tolerate a range of soil types.
- Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in zones 3-7, making it well-suited to cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including bark beetles, root rot, and needle blight. Bark beetles can cause extensive damage to the tree’s bark, while root rot can lead to the tree’s death. Needle blight can cause the tree’s needles to turn brown and fall off prematurely.
Habitat
Pinus Ponderosa Var. Scopulorum is native to the western United States, including the Rocky Mountains and surrounding areas. The tree is typically found in dry, mountainous regions and is well-suited to a range of soil types and climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the tree in containers, it is not recommended due to its large size and deep root system.
Q: How often should the tree be pruned?
A: The tree should be pruned as needed to remove dead or diseased branches.
Q: How long does it take the tree to reach maturity?
A: The tree typically takes 20-40 years to reach maturity, depending on growing conditions.
Q: What is the tree’s wildlife value?
A: The tree provides important habitat and food for a range of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and deer.
Related Plants
- Pinus contorta
- Pinus flexilis
- Pinus monophylla
- Pinus ponderosa
References
- “Pinus ponderosa var. scopulorum.” Plant Conservation Alliance. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, 2020. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/tree/pinponv/
- “Pinus ponderosa var. scopulorum (Engelm.) E. Murray.” USDA Plants Database. United States Department of Agriculture. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PIPSS
- “Rocky Mountain Ponderosa Pine.” Colorado State Forest Service. Colorado State University, 2021. https://csfs.colostate.edu/colorado-trees/tree-id/rocky-mountain-ponderosa-pine/
