Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta)

Lodgepole pine

Also known as: Shore pine, Contorta pine, Western scrub pine, Knotty pine, White pine, Sand shore pine

Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta) is indigenous to western North America. It’s a species known for its longevity—botanists have found trees that are older than 600 years. It was a favorite source of timber for Native Americans. The primary way they used it (as its name suggests) was to build lodgepoles.

Scientific classification

Species

Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta)

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Perennial

Lifespan

8 m

Spread

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

Brown, Copper, Yellow

Fruit Color

Yellow, Purple, Red, Lavender, Burgundy, Gold

Flower Color

Brown, Green, Yellow, Red, Orange

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

10 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Lodgepole pine

Attributes of Lodgepole pine

Growth Rate

In spring and summer, lodgepole pine shows a rapid growth rate, with a distinct burst of height increase and needle formation, indicating its adaptive response to these optimal growing seasons. This fast growth tempo contributes to lodgepole pine's ability to quickly colonize areas, enhance its photosynthesis capability, and exhibit high resilience in various landscapes.

Distribution of Lodgepole pine

Distribution Map

The distribution of lodgepole pine spans across its native regions in North America and expands to introduced territories in Europe and western Asia. As a cultivated species, lodgepole pine thrives in various environments but may sometimes be considered a challenge to native biodiversity in places like Southern Hemisphere nations, where its presence could potentially influence local ecosystems. While lodgepole pine has adapted to several areas outside its original range, its ecological effects are observed with caution.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Ocean shore, dry montane forests to the subalpine

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Lodgepole pine is useful in native plant landscapes. The handsome conical shape of the trunk provides a stunning structural backdrop when planted in the ground or a large container. Female trees also produce attractive yellow or brown cones that add another element of interest to the visual landscape.

Symbolism

Hope, Pity

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Lodgepole pine, including the following common varieties :

Lodgepole pine 'Chief Joseph'

Quickly Identify Lodgepole pine

Irregular, twisted trunk with scaly bark in grayish-brown to dark brown hues.

Needles in pairs, green, 1.5 to 3 inches (4 to 8 cm) long, twisted, in small sheathes.

Egg-shaped cones angled backwards on branches, light brown to brown, 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm).

Male flowers yellow, cylindrical, 1 inch (2.5 cm); Female flowers reddish-purple, 0.75-1 inch (1.9-2.5 cm).

Resinous, orangish-brown stem with narrow, ovoid buds; Bark thin, scaly in various colors.

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Care Guide for Lodgepole pine

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Preferring moist, well-drained soils, lodgepole pine thrives in subalpine areas and is resilient to drought. Watering should occur biweekly, mimicking its natural environment. As an evergreen, its needle-like leaves reduce water loss through transpiration, ensuring moisture conservation in diverse climates.

Fertilize: Optimal fertilization for lodgepole pine involves balanced nutrients, applied in spring and late summer. Quantity should match lodgepole pine's size and age, with caution to avoid root burn. Young lodgepole pine require frequent feeding, while mature lodgepole pine benefits from annual fertilization. Water before and after application to enhance absorption.

Pruning: Lodgepole pine should be pruned in early to late winter, removing dead or damaged branches to enhance growth and shape. Thinning promotes air circulation and light penetration. Make cuts outside the branch collar to reduce disease risk and improve structure. Consult reputable sources for tailored guidance.

Propagation: Lodgepole pine is a versatile conifer that thrives in varied environments. Successful propagation mainly involves cuttings from healthy parent trees, with a piece of older wood ('heel') for genetic fidelity. Ensure consistent moisture and a stable environment for optimal root development.

Repotting: Repot lodgepole pine every 2-3 years in spring, using a container 1-2 sizes larger to fit its taproot. After repotting, provide bright, indirect sunlight and water sparingly to help establish growth while preventing root rot.

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