Pinyon pine - Pinus edulis (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Pinyon pine

Also known as: Two-needle pinyon, Nut Pine, Twoneedle Pinyon

A well-known tree of southwestern North America, the pinyon pine is a state tree of New Mexico (USA), and the most common tree in Colorado (USA) where it makes 22% of state forests. The seeds are dispersed by the famous Pinyon jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus). Many other birds, such as the Montezuma quail (Cyrtonyx montezumae) eat pinyon pine seeds. It's an extremely drought-tolerant tree.

Scientific classification

Species

Pinyon pine (Pinus edulis)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

3 m to 6 m

Plant Height

Brown, Red, Copper, Burgundy

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green, Red, Gold

Flower Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Pinyon pine

Attributes of Pinyon pine

Growth Rate

Pinyon pine's slow growth rate is evident during spring and summer. This decelerated rhythm enables it to focus on developing a strong root system and dense resinous wood. Growth spurt is hardly notable as pinyon pine adds only a few centimeters to its height each season. Its painstaking growth results in compact and hardy structure, an adaptation suited to its native arid environments. Interestingly, this slow speed aids in long lifespan, making pinyon pine one of the longest living plants.

Distribution of Pinyon pine

Distribution Map

Pinyon pine, a species of pine, is native to North America, primarily found in the southwestern region. Its range extends within major ecological zones such as forests and shrublands adapted to arid conditions. There is no significant record of pinyon pine being introduced to regions outside its native habitat, allowing it to maintain a relatively stable and localized presence within its endemic range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Rocky mesas, dry, mountain slopes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Pinyon pine

Needle-like leaves in bundles of two, occasionally one or three.

Distinctive red-brown bark with shallow furrows and scaly ridges.

Fruit cones transition from green to reddish-brown, slender and clustered.

Male cones small, oval, yellowish, female cones larger, brown when mature.

Twisted growth form, flat crown silhouette, vibrant green evergreen foliage.

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Care Guide for Pinyon pine

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to semi-arid climates, pinyon pine thrives with minimal moisture and is drought-tolerant. Water once every 1-2 weeks, ensuring consistent soil moisture during active growth in spring and summer, while avoiding overwatering.

Fertilize: Fertilize pinyon pine with balanced nutrition fertilizers in spring before growth. Use slow-release formulas every 2-3 years, applying according to label instructions. Young pinyon pine benefits from annual fertilization; mature plants require less. Always water thoroughly post-fertilization for nutrient absorption and root protection.

Pruning: Pinyon pine features dense, short needles and edible seeds, requiring early winter pruning to minimize sap loss. Remove dead or crowded branches for better air circulation and sunlight, preventing disease. Trim crossed branches to maintain structure and manage the tree's size for garden suitability.

Propagation: Pinyon pine is propagated through semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy, disease-free stock during active growth. Use a well-draining sandy soil mix, maintain consistent moisture, and provide indirect light. Applying rooting hormone can enhance propagation success.

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