Longleaf Pine Tree

Light Needs

Full Sun

(At Least 6 Hours Of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

60 - 80 Feet

Mature Spread

30 - 40 Feet

Growing Zones

7 to 9

The Longleaf Pine Tree will grow into a tall, majestic tree with a sweeping canopy; however, that takes time. This plant is a Longleaf Pine, but it is in the grass stage, meaning it is an adorable tree that almost looks like an ornamental grass. The Pinus palustris is an evergreen conifer that takes up to 100 years to reach maturity. The straight trunk features brown bark in a shade of cinnamon, and green needle-like foliage grows in clumps of three, with each clump reaching up to 20 inches long. Once mature, the tree will produce pine cones starting in the late fall and lasting into the winter.

This tree is native to the southeastern U.S., and once it is acclimated, it will flourish with very little care. Longleaf Pine grows slowly to start. After a few years, the growth rate will pick up, and Longleaf Pine can grow 2 to 3 feet per year. This tree will attract butterflies and birds, and it grows as a perennial in USDA zones 7 through 9. This tree makes a stately addition to a yard, and it is fire-resistant, so it is excellent to include in a mass planting.

Longleaf Pine Tree Pine Plant Care

Plant Longleaf Pine in a large, open area that receives full sun. The soil should be mildly acidic and well-draining. Newly planted trees will need water a couple of times a week for the first year, but once established, watering will not be necessary except in times of extreme drought. 

This tree is self-pruning which means it naturally sheds lower branches as it grows taller. Pines are not heavy feeders, and once established, these trees are relatively self-sufficient, so fertilizing is not generally necessary.

Longleaf Pine Tree Pine Plant Spacing

The Longleaf Pine will mature into a very large tree, so select a spot that can accommodate a 60 to 80 feet tall tree with a canopy 30 to 40 feet wide. Plant this tree at least 20 feet away from buildings. The canopy is not very dense, so if you want to create a more full and lush canopy, space the trees 15 to 20 feet apart. Space the trees further apart if you wish each tree to have its own space.