Botanical Name: Pinus contorta
Common Name: Shore Pine, Beach Pine
Type of Plant: conifer - tree
Character evergreen
 
Habit of Growth:
Overall Shape a small picturesque pine; single-trunked, tending to branch low to the ground, with branches wide-spreading to form a dense rounded canopy with age; becomes more irregular in shape as it ages
Height 15 - 25' (30')
Spread 2/3 to equal
Growth Rate slow-moderate
 
Environment:
Exposure full sun preferred - can tolerate some shade at inland locations
Soil prefers sandy, well-draining sites with low pH; avoid heavy clay
Hardiness hardy (zones 5-7, 14-24): thrives in cool maritime climate
 
Morphology:
Leaves needles - 2 per fascicle, dark green outside, pale green inside; stiff, 1-2" long, tightly whorled (mostly near ends of branches); may be curved
Flowers male & female strobili (cones) are produced toward the ends of branches; male cones disintegrate afterthe pollen is released
Fruit female cone: ovoid, 1 1/2 - 2" long; takes 2 years to mature
 
Propagation:
seed
 
Usage:
in Southern Calif.: a dramatic small-scale accent tree valued for its rugged, picturesque form; in Northern Calif.; also usable as a shade tree because of its larger potential size; an excellent bonsai for oriental gardens
 
Landscape Care:
Watering periodic deep soaking preferable; can tolerate drought after established at mild-climate sites near the coast
Fertilizing as needed; use a balanced fertilizer at heavily watered sites
Pruning none is required; open up the canopy to enhance the bonsai effect
Pests/Diseases pine shoot moth, spider mite
Special Conditions/Other must have good drainage
 
Origin: coastline areas of Northern California to Alaska
Family: Pinaceae

Notes:
 
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