Pinus palustris

Longleaf Pine, Pitch Pine, Southern Pine

Longleaf Pine should be grown in full sun or partial shade on well-drained soil, acidic soil. Once established, trees are very drought-tolerant and require no irrigation for survival. Along with turkey oak and other dry site plants, it grows in hot dry conditions in the woods and would probably do well in the hot conditions created near concrete and asphalt. Like other pines dropping needles often discourage people from planting pines near streets, parking lots, or near other pavement. Roots also enjoy growing just under the surface of the asphalt and cracking it. Needles are in threes.
Like many pines horizontal branches break easily in ice and wind storms. Something always seems to be falling from this pine tree; needles, sap, branches, and fruit appear on nearby cars, roofs and sidewalks year round. Unless grown in the open with no other trees nearby, shaded lower branches die as the tree grows taller. Open-grown trees keep more lower branches, probably due to greater sun exposure. It is important to maintain only one leader to the top of the plant.
Dropping needles often discourage people from planting pines near streets, parking lots, or near other pavement. Roots also enjoy growing just under the surface of the asphalt and cracking it. Massive tap roots often develop in their natural habitat where soils are deep and well-drained. Probably the most serious problem of Pines in areas with high pH irrigation water is pine chlorosis. The root system is often dominated by a few large diameter roots.

Height 60-90 Feet

Spread 35-50 Feet

USDA Hardiness Zone 7A to 10A

Characteristics & Attributes