Western white pine (Pinus monticola)

Western white pine

Also known as: Mountain white pine, California mountain pine

Western white pine or silver pine is a large tree with large pine cones. It grows naturally in the mountains of western United States and is related to the somewhat smaller Eastern White Pine, Pinus monticola, which grows on the eastern side of the United States.

Scientific classification

Species

Western white pine (Pinus monticola)

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

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Spring

Bloom Time

15 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green, Brown, Gold

Flower Color

Red, Purple, Brown, Burgundy, Lavender

Stem Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Western white pine

Attributes of Western white pine

Growth Rate

Exuding rapid growth in Spring and Summer, western white pine showcases accelerating height increase and vigorous needle production. Growth rates fluctuate seasonally, peaking within this period. Inter-seasonal variations, revealing the plant's aptitude for maximum utilization of these active growth phases, are indicative of its adaptivity. This expeditious growth pattern contributes intriguingly to western white pine's status as a valuable timber species.

Distribution of Western white pine

Distribution Map

Western white pine is a conifer native to western North America's mountainous regions. This species has been introduced and cultivated in parts of the Southern Hemisphere, notably in New Zealand. Western white pine has successfully adapted outside its natural range, being appreciated in various locales for its timber and ornamental qualities.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Vartiety of mt

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Hope, Pity

Get quick plant knowledge with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant identification and learn about its name, symbolism, interesting facts, uses, and more.

Download the App for Free

Quickly Identify Western white pine

Towering height, reaching up to 100 feet (30 meters), with a conical crown.

Distinctive five fascicles of stiff, blue-green needles, each 1.6 to 4 inches (4 to 10 cm) long.

Seed cones taking two years to mature, tannish-brown to yellowish, spanning 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 cm) in length.

Fruit as sizable, cylindrical cones, 5 to 12 inches (12.7 to 30.5 cm) long, with reddish-brown seeds.

Needles shed in the first year, medium-sized, straight, pliable, blue-green, with 4 to 5 white stomatal lines.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Western white pine

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Western white pine thrives in well-drained, moisture-rich conditions, reflecting moderate drought tolerance. Watering should mimic natural precipitation, ideally bi-weekly. As an evergreen, western white pine requires consistent soil moisture for year-round growth and foliage health, especially outdoors.

Fertilize: For western white pine, use balanced fertilizers for healthy growth, applying to young saplings annually and mature trees every 2-3 years. Fertilize in early spring or late winter, using slow-release granules. Ensure thorough watering post-application to aid nutrient absorption and prevent root burn.

Pruning: Western white pine is a tall conifer with slender needles. Prune during winter to remove dead branches, enhancing health and shape. Clean tools to avoid disease. Proper pruning improves air circulation and light access, fostering growth and reducing pests.

Propagation: Western white pine is notable for its impressive height and strength. Propagation involves collecting seeds from mature cones, needing stratification for germination. Use a well-draining medium for young saplings, ensuring proper moisture and protection. Gradual acclimatization of seedlings aids resilience for successful transplantation.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free