Shore Pine

Valuable to wildlife

Drought Tolerant

Characteristics:
The Shore Pine is a slender, medium-sized conifer that typically reaches 40–70 feet in height. It has a straight trunk and narrow, conical shape when young, often forming dense stands in natural forests. The needles grow in pairs, are 1–3 inches long, flexible, and bright green, sometimes with a yellowish hue. Its cones are small, ovoid, and in some subspecies, serotinous, meaning they remain closed until exposed to heat from fire. The bark is thin and scaly when young, becoming thicker and furrowed with age.

Growing Conditions:
Prefers full sun - can thrive in a variety of climates, including cold, dry, and windy conditions. It prefers well-drained, sandy or rocky soils and is tolerant of poor nutrient levels. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering when young.

Uses:
Great for wildlife, and helping windbreak. Its seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.

Height:
40-70' at maturity

Width:
20-45' at maturity

Shape:
Narrow, conical when young; becomes more columnar with age

Flowers:

Leaves:
Needles in pairs, 3 inches long, flexible, slightly twisted, bright green

Bark:
Thin and scaly when young, becoming thicker and furrowed with age, reddish-brown to gray-brown

More Information:
The Shore pine is an important ecological species, providing habitat and food for wildlife. It is fire-adapted, with some cones requiring heat to release seeds. It tolerates a wide range of soils and environmental conditions.