white pine

Pinus Strobus – Eastern White Pine

Pinus strobus, commonly known as the eastern white pine, is a large evergreen tree native to eastern North America. It goes by various other names, including northern white pine, white pine, and Weymouth pine (in the United Kingdom). This majestic tree graces the landscape from Newfoundland, Canada, west through the Great Lakes region to southeastern Manitoba and Minnesota in the United States. It also extends southward along the Appalachian Mountains and upper Piedmont to northernmost Georgia. Although rare in Indiana, it remains a significant species in the region.

Habitat and Distribution

Pinus strobus thrives in the nearctic temperate broadleaf and mixed forests biome. It prefers well-drained or sandy soils and humid climates. You’ll find it standing tall in mixed forests, where it often dominates over other trees, including some of the large broadleaf hardwoods. This magnificent pine provides essential food and shelter for forest birds like the red crossbill and small mammals such as squirrels. Interestingly, fossilized white pine leaves and pollen have been discovered in the Gulf Coastal Plain, even though the tree no longer occurs there.

Companion Plants

Rhododendrons: These flowering shrubs thrive in acidic soil and partial shade, making them excellent companions for the eastern white pine.
Ferns: Ferns appreciate the cool, shaded environment beneath the pine’s canopy.
Wildflowers: Native wildflowers, such as trilliums and violets, harmonize beautifully with the white pine.

Species Details

Height: Grows to impressive heights, reaching up to 80 – 110 feet.

Width: The crown spreads broadly, forming an irregular oval shape.

Light Exposure: Prefers full sun to partial shade.

Fruit and Flower Type: Produces elongated cones 6 – 8 inches long containing winged seeds.

Fall Color: Needles remain green throughout the year.

Watering Requirements: Requires moderate watering; well-drained soil is essential.

Fertilization: Minimal fertilization needed; focus on soil health.

Pruning: Minimal pruning required; remove dead or damaged branches as needed.

Image: US FWS, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Evergreens

Category: Evergreens – White pine near me – Eastern white pine – Pinus strobus