Species eastern white pine
gray-green, long, shiny needles with brown stems

eastern white pine

Pinus strobus

The Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) is a species of tall perennial conifer native to eastern North America. It typically grows 80–100’ tall with a pyramidal to narrowly ovoid crown. This evergreen tree features blue-green needles in bundles of 5, yellow-brown terminal buds, and ovoid to oblong-conic red-brown cones. The form and size of the tree makes it attractive for landscapes and for timber. Its attractive bark and wood are used in carpentry and woodworking. Eastern White Pine is likely the most cold-hardy of the white pines.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers In Spring

Sun:

Full sun

Soil:

Sandy Loamy Rocky

Cones:

Yes

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,white

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Eastern white pine requires regular watering, particularly when it is young. During the growing season, Eastern white pine needs approximately 1-1.5 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or watering. When watering, it’s important to soak the soil thoroughly and avoid over-watering. In winter, it is important to reduce watering to approximately 1/4 -1/2 inch of water every other week, or as needed. During times of drought, water sparingly.

sunlight

Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) grows best in full sun, with 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. When grown in shade or partial shade, the growth rate is usually slower and the tree may become sparse and spindly. Ideally, eastern white pine will benefit from morning sun and afternoon shade or full south-facing exposure. It is heat tolerant but prefers cooler climates overall.

pruning

Eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) should be pruned during the late winter or early spring for maintenance and shaping purposes. Pruning should be limited to removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches and any weak or crossing branches. Maximum pruning should be limited to no more than 25% of the tree's total foliage. In particular, avoid pruning the top and inner parts of the tree, as these are essential for providing shade and reducing the risk of wind damage. If needed, remove approximately 1-third of the new growth each year to maintain a healthy structure. Limit any other work to the removal of smaller branches or dead limbs.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Eastern white pine typically start flowering in April.

Hardiness Map