Ponderosa Pine

Pinus ponderosa
Appearance:  A tall evergreen with a varied appearance, Ponderosa pine is an arresting character tree for larger, natural-looking landscapes.  An unstructured growth habit often lends mature specimens a rugged, windswept appearance.  Long, shaggy needles, furrowed bark and large pine cones provide unmistakable texture and character to the landscape.   Excellent shade tree, or for use in windbreaks and shelterbets.  

Care and Maintenance:  An adaptable tree with a high canopy (7' from ground); lower limbs may be pruned to accommodate human traffic.  Ponderosa Pine are remarkably long-lived:  under ideal conditions, some specimens survive for 100 years or more .  Tolerant of adverse conditions, this tree prefers dry to average moisture levels with above average drainage, and is drought tolerant once established.  Can handle a variety of soil types/pH, but is intolerant of urban pollution and standing water.  Requires occasional maintenance and upkeep.  Pruning should be restricted to dieback, or the current season's new growth.    

Mature Height:  49'     Mature Spread:  16'
Growth Rate:  Moderate
Hardiness Zone:  3a
Sunlight:  Full sun