Pine Tree Types in Washington State

Native Pine Tree Species

What are the native pine tree species found in Washington State?

1. Western White Pine (Pinus monticola)
2. Habitat: Moist, rich soils at elevations from sea level to 7,000 feet.
3. Growth Pattern: Long and slender cones up to 15 inches long; blue-green needles in clusters of five, up to four inches long.
4. Ecological Role: Provides habitat for various wildlife.

5. Measurements: Up to 160 feet tall, pale brown, soft, finely grained wood.

6. Whitebark Pine (Pinus albicaulis)

7. Habitat: High elevations.
8. Growth Pattern: Needles in clusters of five; cones range from 2.5 to 4.5 inches long.
9. Ecological Role: Keystone species, regulates runoff, controls soil erosion, and provides food for birds and mammals.

10. Measurements: Up to 90 feet tall, shrub-like appearance, wind-impacted shape.

11. Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)

12. Habitat: Dry soils, often in large gardens and parks.
13. Growth Pattern: Dark yellow-green needles in clusters up to 11 inches long; cones up to 6 inches long.
14. Ecological Role: Supports local ecosystems.

15. Measurements: Up to 200 feet tall, soft, fine-grained dark brown to reddish-brown wood.

16. Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)

17. Habitat: Mountain and coastal regions.
18. Growth Pattern: Needles in clusters up to 3 inches long; cones small, hard, and prickled.
19. Ecological Role: Supports local ecosystems.
20. Measurements: Up to 50 feet tall, adapted to poor and rocky soils.

What are the key characteristics of the Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)?

• Physical Description: Soft, fine-grained dark brown to reddish-brown wood; dark yellow-green needles in clusters up to 11 inches long; cones up to 6 inches long.
• Growth Conditions: Prefers dry soils, often found in large gardens and parks.
• Typical Lifespan: Long-lived, with some trees reaching over 500 years.
• Notable Uses or Cultural Significance: Highly valued for its wood, used in construction and furniture-making.
• Quantitative Data: Average age at maturity: 100-200 years; typical range of height: 100-200 feet; typical range of width: 30-60 feet.

Non-Native Pine Tree Species

What are the non-native pine tree species found in Washington State?

1. Pinus Flexilis “Cesarini Blue”
2. Origin: Introduced for landscaping.
3. Growth Habits: Asymmetrical appearance, requires full sun, and regular pruning to maintain a small, dense shape.
4. Visual Characteristics: Soft blue-green needles.
5. Maintenance Requirements: Regular pruning.
6. Ecological Impact: None significant.

7. Quantitative Data: Up to 14 feet tall, 7 foot spread.

8. Vanderwolf Pine

9. Origin: Introduced for landscaping.
10. Growth Habits: Pyramid-shaped, soft blue-green needles, tolerates partial shade.
11. Visual Characteristics: Soft blue-green needles.
12. Maintenance Requirements: Minimal.
13. Ecological Impact: None significant.
14. Quantitative Data: Up to 30 feet tall, 15 foot spread.

References

1. The Pine Trees of Washington State – Big Trees Supply. (2013, May 26). Retrieved from https://bigtreesupply.com/the-pine-trees-of-washington-state/

2. Pacific Northwest Native Plant Profile: Pine (Pinus species) – Real Gardens Grow Natives. (2022, March 15). Retrieved from https://realgardensgrownatives.com/?p=5420

3. Identifying Old Trees and Forests – Washington State Department of Natural Resources. (2008, September). Retrieved from https://www.dnr.wa.gov/publications/lm_hcp_eastside_oldgrowth_guide.pdf.

The pine trees of Washington State are a diverse and important part of the state’s natural landscape. From the towering Ponderosa Pine to the high-elevation Whitebark Pine, these trees play crucial roles in local ecosystems and provide valuable resources for both wildlife and human communities.