Longleaf Pine. This species was the predominant ecosystem in the Southeast when Europeans settled here four centuries ago. The stout straight trunks were a favorite with ship builders for the masts on their sailing vessels. It is well noted for its 12-18" needles and 10" cones. When we have been visited on several occasions by Japanese nurserymen, they are quite taken up with this tree. It is slow growing to start with, but then really takes off. It has the habit or remaining in the "grass" stage for several years, but this can be easily overcome with a higher fertility rate. Picture compliments of Adam Black.
Zones 7-9
