Pinus contorta ssp. murrayana

lodgepole pine

Habit: long lived, coniferous evergreen tree with a mostly conical crown and thin, scaly, orange brown to dark brown bark. Usually grows upright and straight, but can be found growing in a twisted, shrubby form on exposed bluffs and higher elevations. The needlelike leaves are 1-2 in (3-5 cm) long and in fascicles of two. Seed cones are symmetrical occurring in clusters and falling soon after shedding its seeds.

Ecology: found on rocky slopes, and wet meadows in montane to subalpine forests at elevations of 1300-11,500 ft (400-3500 m).

Growing Conditions: full sun, moist, well-drained, rocky soil. Prefers cold, wet winters and dry warm summers.

Mammals and several bird species use Sierra lodgepole pine forests for food, cover, or habitat.

Category:

Specs

Type:
Evergreen Coniferous Tree
Height:
50-100 ft (15-30 m)
Width:
10-20 ft (3-6 m)
USDA Zones:
2-6

Native Habitat

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