Pinus strobus, commonly called Eastern white pine, is a rapid-growing, long-lived, needled evergreen tree that is native to the northeastern United States and Canada (State tree of Maine and Michigan). Although pyramidal in its early years, it matures to a broad oval habit with an irregular crown. Typically grows 50-80' in cultivation, but will grow to 100' tall in the wild, with records existing to over 200'. Bluish green needles (to 5" long) are soft to the touch and appear in bundles of five. Cylindrical, brown cones (4-8" long) are usually not produced until 5-10 years. An important timber tree is valued for its lightweight, straight-grained wood (orange heartwood and white sapwood). Easily grown in acidic, medium moisture, well-drained soil in full sun. Prefers fertile soils and cool, humid climates. Intolerant of compacted, clayey soils, alkaline conditions, and many air pollutants. Hardy in zones 3-8.

Growing Instructions for the Eastern White Pine

The seeds have a period of dormancy. They can be planted outdoors in the fall or winter for spring germination or they can be cold stratified to simulate winter conditions and to break their dormancy at any time of the year. 1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours. 2. Put the seeds in a ziplock bag. 3. Put the bag in the refrigerator and leave it there for 2 months. 4. The seeds like moist, rich soil. Put some soil in a pot. 5. Sow the seeds ¼ of an inch deep. 6. Water the soil so that it is moist but not wet. 7. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.