How to Grow and Care for Pitch pine

Pitch pine, also known as Torch pine, Northern pitch pine, Hard pine, Candlewood pine

Pitch pine is a resilient and adaptive species, thriving in well-drained soils and showing a preference for full sunlight. It can tolerate poor soil conditions, drought, and cold temperatures, which makes it easier to maintain. Special care should be given to protect pitch pine from over-watering and pests, primarily bark beetles, which can damage the tree. Regular assessment for signs of infestations and proper soil moisture are key for its health.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

In This Article

Planting and Growing Pitch pine

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	5-6
Planting Time	Spring
Hardiness Zones	4-7

A Botanist in Your Pocket

Scan QR code to download

Common Pests & Diseases

Feedback

Common issues for Pitch pine based on 10 million real cases

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free

More General Info About Pitch pine

Feedback

Quickly Identify Pitch pine

Feedback

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Pitch pine presents as a rugged and sturdy conifer with an open, often irregularly pyramidal form in youth which matures into a unique globular shape adorned with thick, contorted branches that sometimes droop. The rough, scaly bark starts with a reddish-brown hue before it darkens to black over time. Characteristically, the foliage comprises stiff needles that group in threes, first appearing yellow-green and then deepening to a darker shade of green. The trunk of pitch pine usually measures between 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) in diameter.