Loblolly Pine
Pinus taeda · Coniferous Evergreen, Softwood
Plant Family
Pinaceae
Tree Category
Conifer, Forest Tree, Timber Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species type with no specific named cultivar
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9.
About This Tree
A large, straight-growing conifer with a tall, clear trunk and an open, rounded to oblong crown. It features needle-like foliage in bundles and produces large woody cones.
Leaf Characteristics
Needles are dark green, slender, typically bundled in fascicles of three, and measure 4 to 9 inches long.
Bark Characteristics
Thick, dark reddish-brown to grey-brown bark divided into broad, scaly plates separated by deep fissures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern United States, well-adapted to the Atlantic and Gulf coastal plains.
Growing Season
Evergreen with active growth occurring primarily in spring and summer, slowing down in winter.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun and moderate watering; exhibits good tolerance to temporary flooding and moderate drought once established.
Mature Size
Expect a mature height of 60 to 90 feet, a spread of 30 to 50 feet, and a fast growth rate with a lifespan exceeding 100 years.
Special Characteristics
Valuable timber tree for lumber and pulpwood, high resin content, excellent adaptability to disturbed soils.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides critical nesting habitat for the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, seeds are consumed by various birds and small mammals.