Ponderosa Pine

 Ponderosa Pine

Pinus ponderosa

Pictured Above are a Grouping of Ponderosa Pines in Boulder, CO

Ponderosa Pine is a long needled Pine native to the Rocky Mountains, Sierra Navada, and into parts of the Northern Plains. The species is divided into four subspecies. One native in the NW, one in Sierra Navada range in California, one in the Southwestern part of the country, and one in the Colorado Rockies to the Northern Plains. This tree is also very popular in landscaping as an erosion control tree or for common landscapaing. It dislikes the clay soils and high moisture in Eastern states, however they will adapt if sited properly. I have read of specimens grown near Chicago with great success, as well as in some East Coast areas.

Hardiness: USDA Zones 3-7

Mature Size: 50'+ tall by 20'-30' wide

Light: Full Sun

Water: Dry

Performs best in well draining soils.

Soils: Not particular with specific pH level. Requires deep well draining soils. While not preferring clay soils, they will adapt if placed properly with adequate drainage. Most Conifers including Ponderosa Pine prefer slightly acidic soils, but Ponderosa Pine does have quite the tolerance for a wide range of soil pH from Alkaline to Acidic.

Deciduous/Evergreen: Evergreen