Jack pine (Pinus banksiana)

Jack pine

Also known as: Black Pine, Gray Pine, Princess Pine, Scrub pine

The jack pine is native to eastern North America. The pine cones are generally 5 cm and curved at the tip. The moderately hard and heavy wood from this tree is used for lumber, pulpwood, telephone poles, mine timbers, railroad ties, and more.

Scientific classification

Species

Jack pine (Pinus banksiana)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

11 m to 15 m

Plant Height

Brown, Copper, Yellow

Fruit Color

Brown

Flower Color

Green, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Jack pine

Attributes of Jack pine

Growth Rate

With a rapid growth rate, jack pine proliferates robustly during spring and summer. This leads to extensive coniferous foliage and an accelerated height increase, showing a surge in growth. It adapts to variable climatic conditions, highlighting its resilience despite its rapid growth spurts during the active seasons.

Distribution of Jack pine

Distribution Map

Jack pine is native to North America’s boreal region. Its range extends into the northeastern parts of the continent and the upper Great Lakes area. Beyond its natural range, jack pine has been introduced to several countries across Europe and Asia, as well as New Zealand, where it is grown in varying frequencies and scales.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Sterile, sandy, conifer woods

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Hope, Pity

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Quickly Identify Jack pine

Twisted, olive green needles in bundles of 2

Yellowish-brown cones, some remaining closed after maturation

Rough, scaly bark with irregular, flaky scales

Solitary trunk with slightly descending lower branches

Distinctly rugged, plate-like bark with segmented ridges

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Care Guide for Jack pine

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from boreal forests, jack pine thrives in low rainfall environments, showing high drought tolerance. In cultivation, water every 1-2 weeks to maintain moisture balance. As an evergreen with needle-like leaves, jack pine is suitable for regions with variable climates.

Fertilize: Jack pine benefits from balanced nutrition fertilizers. Annually apply a slow-release N-P-K formula in pre-spring, extending to the drip line, avoiding the trunk. Younger trees may need more frequent applications. Water thoroughly post-fertilization and wear protective gear while following guidelines.

Pruning: Jack pine exhibits unique, twisted growth patterns and requires late winter pruning to promote new growth and air circulation. Key techniques include removing dead branches and thinning dense areas, enhancing health and aesthetics while managing height and spread to maintain vibrancy.

Propagation: Jack pine, a hardy conifer native to North America, thrives in poor soil and diverse environments. Propagate using stratified seeds in well-draining soil, maintaining suitable moisture. Once established, jack pine demands minimal care, ideal for reforestation and natural landscaping.

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