Pinus ponderosa
Ponderosa Pine
Description
This evergreen conifer reaches 30-60' tall and 15-30' wide. This Oregon native has a narrow and pyramidal habit that changes to an irregular cylinder shaped, narrow crown. Foliage is light green needles with an airy and open look. Pine cones are reddish-brown to gray-brown, with prickles. This tree does best in full sun with moist, well-draining soil. Established trees are drought tolerant and can survive alkaline soil. This large tree attracts wildlife. It has an open canopy which allows sunlight to stream intermittently to the ground. The preferred cultivar is the Willamette Valley variety.
Plant Type
Tree, Conifer
Height Range
25-40', 40-60'
Width Range
Flower Color
n/a
Flower Season
n/a
Leaf Color
Light Green
Bark Color
Brown, Red
Fruit Color
Brown, Red
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Moist
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Formal, Japanese, Ranch, Seascape, Wild Garden, Woodland
Accenting Features
Specimen, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Park, Roadside
Special Uses
Erosion Control, Wind Break, Shade Tree
Attracts Wildlife
Wildlife
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.