Pinus echinata (Shortleaf Pine)

The hardiest and most adaptable of the southern pines, Pinus echinata (Shortleaf Pine) is a large evergreen conifer with short, spreading branches forming a pyramidal crown that broadens with age. Its evergreen foliage of relatively short bright green needles, 5 in. (12 cm), is borne in groups of two. The cylindrical brown cones, 1.5-2.5 in. long (3-6 cm), are produced on mature specimens (over 20 years old). Shortleaf Pine seeds are an important food source for birds and small mammals. The thin, flaky, black bark becomes reddish brown with evident resin pockets on older specimens. Shortleaf Pine is the most widely distributed of the southern yellow pines, being present in 21 states. It is a pioneer species. Many Shortleaf Pine stands became established after the Civil War when fields were abandoned. An important timber species, it is fire-resistant and very drought-tolerant. Perfect for native plant gardens or naturalized areas.

• Grows up to 50-60 ft. tall (15-18 m) and 20-35 ft. wide (6-10 m). 
• Performs best in full sun (tolerates light shade) in dry to medium, acidic, well-drained soils. Tolerates a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, sandy, or silty loams. Drought tolerant once established.
• Keep an eye out for pine beetles, weevils, Littleleaf disease, root rot, and red heart rot. Deer resistant.
• Prune to maintain shape. Fertilize 3 times a year with lawn fertilizer 3:1:2 ratio.
• Propagate by seed. Sow fresh, untreated seed in late fall.
• Native to the southeastern United States. It grows in the Atlantic Coast States from southeastern New York to northern Florida; throughout the Gulf States; and inland to western Pennsylvania, southern Ohio, southern Illinois, southern Missouri, eastern Oklahoma, and eastern Texas. Arkansas contains more shortleaf pine than any other state.