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California Native Plant

Pinus ponderosa

Ponderosa Pine

Plant photo of: Pinus ponderosa
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Information by: Bonnie Rose        Photographer: Betsy Thompson

 

Description

Defining this tree are bundles of dark, yellow green needles, which form tufts near the end of the branches. Its cones are ovular, and the bark of the young tree is a dark brown or black color. The shade of the bark changes as the tree matures, and becomes a reddish orange color with irregular scaly plates. This variety is known to grow 300 to 600 years. Pines are highly combustible plants.

 

Plant Type

Tree, Conifer

Height Range

40-60', 60-100', 100' and up

Flower Color

n/a

Flower Season

n/a

Leaf Color

Green, Dark Green, Yellow Green

Bark Color

Brown, Red

Fruit Color

Brown

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained, Dry

Soil pH

Acid, Neutral

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Formal, Japanese, Ranch, Seascape, Wild Garden, Woodland

Accenting Features

Specimen, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

n/a

Location Uses

Background, Lawn, Park, Roadside

Special Uses

Erosion Control, Screen, Mass Planting, Wind Break, Shade Tree

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.