Long Leaf Pine Tree

Life Cycle: Evergreen
Native to: The Southern United States
Indoor/Outdoor: outdoor
Uses: landscaping, resin, turpentine, timber, wood for ships, coiled basket making
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Pinophyta
Class: Punopsida
Order: Pinales
Family: Pinaceae
Genus: Pinus
Subgenus: Pinus
Species: P. palustris

The unusually warm weather this season has caused many flowers and plants to bloom and continue to stay green unseasonably. Normally, the only green remaining in the tree line by early January is the ever green of the long leaf pine tree. Thankfully this hearty plant is resistant to frequent weather changes and will continue to be just fine if the temperature plummets, stays warm, or fluctuates from week-to-week. Since the long leaf pine tree is native to North Carolina, it is well accustomed to drastic weather changes. The general pine tree is named North Carolina’s state tree by NC General Statute §145-3 and can be seen just about everywhere. However, the species that is most common and incorrectly believed to be the state tree (because it is so prevalent) is the longleaf pine or P. palustris.

The longleaf pine currently grows 98-115 feet tall with a diameter of 28 inches, however, early record indicate they once grew to 154 feet tall with a diameter of 47 inches. A pine tree does not reach full growth until it is 100 to 150 years old and can live for up to 500 years.

The “leaves” of this plant are pine needles which are long and skinny (see picture below) and come in groupings. The pine tree also contains and drops pine cones which contain the tree’s seeds.

Even though the tree appears abundant, there are significantly fewer longleaf pine trees and new growth than there once was. This is believed arise from the young plant serving as good food for pigs during the early settlement of theUnited States. The decline in the longleaf pine has also lead to the decline of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker who is dependent on the tree for survival.

If you wish to plant a pine, care is relatively easy. Since the longleaf pine is native to the area, natural weather conditions and water are conducive to growth and require no maintenance. Pine Trees can be seen locally atPullenPark, a free public park located approximately 1.1 miles fromNorth CarolinaStateUniversity. Pine trees can be seen any time of year.

North Raleigh Florist can obtain small pine trees that can be sent for Arbor Day on March 15, Earth Day on April 22, or any day for a garden enthusiast! You could also take advantage of the unseasonably warm weather and visitPullenParkwhile enjoying a gourmet picnic basket from North Raleigh Florist!